In 2012, Royal Marine and member of the elite Special Boat Service, Paul ‘Woody’ Woodland lost his life in a training exercise.
Paul ‘Woody’ Woodland
He was born, bred and schooled in Penarth, South Wales, and had always wanted to be a Royal Marine. His dream had been to build a log cabin where he would be able to live with his family once he completed his armed forces career.
His fiancé Sian, formerly Royal Navy, immersed herself in raising funds for military charities after his death. She also helped to set up Woody’s Lodge, which offers inviting meeting spaces in Wales where veterans, serving soldiers and emergency services, as well as their loved ones can receive support.
“When a veteran or serving soldier comes home from active service, it can be difficult to adjust back to ‘normal’ life,” she explains.
“Not only for themselves, but also for their families. Sometimes it can be a case of the whole family having to readjust to a new home dynamic.
“To get used to being together again, it takes some understanding and compromise to find your flow in the home. This can be more challenging if a family member is struggling with physical or mental health issues and needs extra support,” adds Sian.
Woody’s Lodge provides advice and guidance on a range of topics from housing and benefits, to socialising with peers.
“From family days, activities or to just ensuring that you’re feeling supported through a good cup of tea and a biscuit, Woody’s Lodge is here with you every step of the way,” says Sian.
You can find lodges in Barry, Colwyn Bay and Llandysul – woodyslodge.org