Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has met armed forces veterans taking part in a Help for Heroes sporting programme that supports health and wellbeing after active service.

The Community Sport Series was held on 26 and 27 September at the Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex in Newtownards, bringing together veterans and their families to try a range of inclusive, accessible activities.

During the visit, the Minister spoke with participants before joining a game of boccia, a Paralympic sport originally developed for athletes with high support needs. Minister Lyons said: "It was a pleasure to meet veterans and their families and to see first-hand the positive impact events like this can have. "Sport provides an opportunity to stay active, build confidence, develop new skills and strengthen connections with others who share similar experiences. "Our veterans have given so much through their service and it is important that they can access the support they need to live well after leaving the Armed Forces. "That is why I launched the Veterans Support Line NI earlier this year. The service provides a dedicated and confidential point of contact, helping veterans and their families access benefits, housing support and a wide range of other services. "My Department is also strengthening support for veterans through improved access to services, enhanced staff training and closer engagement with veterans' organisations to ensure that those who have served our country face no disadvantage when accessing public services."

Mark Wright, who served as a private in the Light Infantry, said: "The Community Sport Series is a great way for veterans to get together and try different activities. It also helps to build a sense of community among veterans."

Mark's wife Fiona said: "I am glad to see initiatives like the Veterans Support Line. Resources like this are much needed to help veterans access vital support."

The Veterans Support Line NI can be reached on 0800 158 5556 or by texting ADVICE to 07860 042576. Further details are available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/veterans-support-line-ni.