Building Bridges: The Inaugural Nuclear Community Convention
The Nuclear Communities Charity Foundation (NCCF) is proud to have hosted the first-ever Nuclear Community Convention held between the 10th and 12th of May at the Hilton Hotel East Midlands Airport. This event brought together various organisations working within the nuclear community for shared experiences and collaboration.
A Centralised Gathering
Selecting a central location was essential to maximise attendance. The Hilton at East Midlands Airport offered excellent accessibility by road, rail, and air. Its proximity to the airport makes it convenient for attendees from all directions with well-supported bus and taxi services filling any gaps. This central location also aligns perfectly with the catchment area for the Community Care Check Pilot, allowing for targeted outreach to this important group.
A Commitment to Inclusion
Despite time constraints, the NCCF has made it a priority to reach out to past BNTVA conference supporters and beneficiaries from the Community Care Check Pilot. We understand that a longer lead time would have been ideal, and in the future, we are committed to engaging the entire beneficiary community with ample notice.
Affordability and Remembrance
The NCCF is dedicated to making this event accessible. Thanks to a £20,000 budget allocation, attendees enjoyed complimentary accommodation and meals, with only their travel costs to cover. Additionally, the NCCF funded transportation to and from a poignant Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum.
Community Engagement
This exciting event marks a new chapter, bringing together various organisations not just within the nuclear community and academia but from the wider environment of Cold War organisations, creating shared experiences and collaboration.
Attendance
The community response in attending the event was amazing, over one hundred people in total, with 80 Veterans, Spouses and offspring. Alongside the regular conference visitors were both Veterans and offspring who had never attended an event before.
Our common interest organisations included the new BNTVA Museum CIC, Nuclear Voices Project, The CHRC, The Office for Veterans Affairs, Big Ideas, The Military Vehicles Trust, The Cold War Network, EA Mobility and Revitalise Respite.
Presentations
Jeffrey Liddiatt MBE – NCCF Hon Life President
Unfortunately, due to health issues, Jeff was not able to attend in person however he sent a video message welcoming all and wishing the best for an enjoyable event.
Ian Hall – NCCF Chairman
Ian chaired the Convention and made a short speech of welcome, recognising many faces and noting that it had been a number of years since the NCCF had formally attended any community events.
Nigel Heaps MBE – BNTVA CIC Advisor
BNTVA Governance Issues and Restructuring
Nigel Heaps MBE, a former Chairman of the BNTVA and architect of the BNTVA Constitution, was invited in early 2023 to address governance concerns within the BNTVA CIC. His comprehensive review revealed significant lapses in trustee leadership, which had led to actions being taken in the name of the charity that severely damaged the BNTVA’s reputation and finances.
Taking Responsibility and Rebuilding
The BNTVA trustees accepted full accountability for these issues. Serious incident reports were filed, and the Charity Commission conducted a review, issuing recommendations that were implemented. Unfortunately, the fallout further strained the BNTVA’s resources, pushing it close to insolvency. Despite extensive efforts, including a costly legal battle, the organisation lacked the experience and resources to continue as a CIC.
Financial Rescue and Asset Preservation
A critical element of the rescue package involved a financial bailout of over £20k from BH Associates, a generous gesture that significantly alleviated the BNTVA’s financial burden. Additionally, BNTVA members rallied and raised almost £16k from Gift Aid authorisations. This combined effort and BH Associates’ willingness to forego further claims in exchange for BNTVA’s property enabled the organisation to settle its debts and avoid insolvency.
As part of the BH Associates write-off deal, an agreement was made to transfer all BNTVA property to the newly established BNTVA Museum CIC. This Community Interest Company structure ensures non-profit operation and an asset lock to the NCCF, safeguarding the BNTVA’s valuable artefacts and archives from the uncertainties of a ‘liquidation fire sale’ and preserving them for future generations.
Securing the Future – A New Chapter
Recognising the importance of the BNTVA’s mission, the NCCF stepped in to provide support. They agreed to assume responsibility for critical functions, including:
- Maintaining free magazine space for BNTVA communications
- Organising reunion and remembrance events
- Become the custodian of BNTVA Memorials
- Providing the funeral drape service.
They are also expanding the BNTVA Connect initiative (introduced through the Community Care Check pilot) to encompass these activities and new initiatives going into the future.
The Very Reverend Nicholas Frayling – Chaplain to the Nuclear Community
Nicholas gave a welcome speech recognising the power of evolution, union and community with the power of remembrance and cooperation.
Ian Hall – NCCF Takes on BNTVA Legacy: Preserving Remembrance and Community
Ian Hall outlined the exciting new chapter for the BNTVA community, with the NCCF stepping forward with a steadfast commitment to ensure the continuation of cherished traditions and heritage preservation.
Securing the Future of Remembrance Events:
- NAVAD: Events will be held at the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) or other significant locations
- Memorials: The NCCF, in collaboration with the BNTVA Museum, will assume guardianship of BNTVA memorials and secure their upkeep through fundraising initiatives
- Remembrance Sunday: The NCCF will organise veteran participation at the Cenotaph. Details and name submissions will be available in this magazine edition.
Preserving Traditions and Building Community:
- Funeral Drape Service: The NCCF thanks Shelly Grigg and her team for crafting new funeral drapes. They will ensure this vital service continues by managing drape distribution to funeral directors
- The Magazine: The NCCF deeply values the magazine and maintains its editorial format, encouraging veterans to share stories and memories, recognising their integral role in the community
- Reunions and Regional Events: The NCCF is committed to delivering community events like conventions. Recognising travel limitations, they plan to expand regional events through the BNTVA Connect initiative.
Open Invitation for Collaboration:
The NCCF warmly welcomes suggestions from the community to further enrich veterans’ experiences. Your ideas are valuable to us, so please don’t hesitate to contact us!
The BNTVA Museum – Wesley Perriman Curator
BNTVA Museum: Sharing Stories, Preserving History
Wesley provided an update on the exciting BNTVA Museum, established to safeguard the BNTVA movement’s unique artefacts and archives as a Community Interest Company (CIC).
Building on Success, Expanding Reach:
Wesley, a seasoned curator, will meticulously examine the collection to create compelling touring exhibitions for museums and galleries nationwide. This ambitious project will showcase the BNTVA’s legacy and share the stories of veterans with a wider audience.
Seeking Expert Guidance and Community Input:
Later this year, the BNTVA Museum will establish its first Advisory Board. This board will be diverse community representatives, charity experts, and specialists from museums and Cold War organizations. Their valuable insights will guide the CIC’s direction.
Reaching Out to the Community: A Call for Donations
The museum’s inaugural project focuses on acquiring personal memorabilia from veterans. A dedicated outreach campaign will connect with potential donors. Informational materials will outline two paths for contribution: immediate donation or bequest through one’s will.
The Power of Personal Stories:
The museum seeks items that capture the human experience, such as letters home, diaries, and souvenirs. These objects offer a glimpse into the lives of those who served, enriching the historical narrative. When donating, consider including personal anecdotes – these details significantly enhance the value of each piece.
Shelly Grigg – Fallout Group Shines On: Supporting Veterans and Connecting Generations
Shelly delivered positive news for the Fallout Group, a Facebook community dedicated to connecting the children of British Nuclear Test Veterans (BNTVA). Despite the BNTVA CIO’s deregistration, the Fallout Group will continue to thrive.
Reaching Almost 1,000 Members:
With nearly 1,000 members, the Fallout Group has blossomed into a vibrant online hub for the BNTVA offspring community. This growth is a testament to our shared dedication and the strength of our community.
Exciting Collaboration with BNTVA Museum:
The future of the Fallout Group is filled with promise. Shelly announced a thrilling collaboration with the newly established BNTVA Museum. This joint effort will pave the way for a comprehensive online resource dedicated to the BNTVA veterans, sparking excitement for what’s to come.
A Community-Driven Initiative:
The online resource aims to be a community project similar to the successful initiative at the Thiepval Memorial in France. Exposure magazine will share details regarding contribution opportunities and project progress.
Nigel Heaps MBE – NCCF’s Community Care Check Pilot: Reaching Out and Making a Difference
Nigel Heaps MBE, member of the Community Care Check Outreach Team presented the CCC report, recognising that this was a significant shift in the NCCF grant making activities.
From Reactive to Proactive:
The NCCF is moving away from a passive application system. The CCC proactively reaches beneficiaries with dedicated outreach efforts, encouraging them to seek support. This innovative approach flips the script, ensuring those needing to learn about available assistance are connected with the resources they deserve.
Office for Veteran Affairs Funding
The Office for Veterans Affairs has made the CCC possible with a grant of £70,00 which has been match funded by the NCCF. This significant investment by the Government has allowed us to fastrack the pilot and really start making a palpable difference in our grant support for community members.
Expanding Our Reach and Tailoring Support:
Ian Higginbottom, the Outreach Coordinator, has developed a comprehensive program that includes regular phone calls, home visits, and personalised support plans to directly contact 150 beneficiaries and over 900 family members. This personalised approach allows the NCCF to understand individual needs and tailor support accordingly. The pilot also goes beyond simply connecting veterans with resources. Family members play a crucial role in wellbeing, and including them in the outreach program ensures a holistic approach to care.
Making a Tangible Impact:
The pilot’s results so far are promising. Compared to the traditional system, the CCC boasts a two-thirds increase in applications and a jump in grant spending from £4,000 to £5,600. This signifies that the proactive approach reaches more beneficiaries and identifies those with more significant needs. Additionally, the program has facilitated higher-quality grant applications, ensuring resources are directed towards areas where they can make the most significant impact.
Data-Driven Approach for Continuous Improvement:
The NCCF is committed to a data-driven approach to continuous improvement. Gathering demographic and wellbeing data through tools like the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (SWEMWBS) helps assess the pilot’s effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. This data allows the NCCF to refine its outreach strategies and tailor support to address the specific needs of its beneficiary population.
Adapting to Challenges and Building Sustainability:
Every outreach program is flawed, and the CCC is no exception. The initial one-in-four phone connection success rate is declining, highlighting the need for adaptation. The NCCF is already exploring solutions for more sustainable outreach interaction, such as incorporating alternative communication methods or exploring partnerships with local organisations to create a more robust support network.
Measuring Outcomes and Sharing Knowledge:
The SWEMWBS is more than just being used to gauge the impact of outreach efforts on beneficiaries. We also analyse and include the demographics return data in our policy-making and planning. Forms were also distributed at this convention to assess its impact on attendees’ wellbeing. Look for the results in this magazine, alongside the final report on the CCC pilot program. By sharing their findings, the NCCF aims to contribute valuable insights to the field of veteran support and inspire other organisations to adopt similar proactive approaches.
Continuing the Pilot
The CCC Pilot demonstrates the NCCF’s commitment to proactive engagement and impactful support for its beneficiaries. This innovative program increases access to resources and serves as a model for other organisations seeking to improve veteran care.
Steve Bexon – Editor exposure magazine
Veteran Stories Take Centre Stage
Stephen’s presentation at the conference offered a glimpse into Exposure magazine’s exciting future. Incorporating BNTVA news and content from the newly established BNTVA Museum marks a significant shift towards a more “veteran-centric” approach. This focus on veterans’ stories and experiences promises to make the magazine even more engaging and relevant to its readership.
A Collaborative Spirit Fosters Rich Content
Exposure thrives on collaboration. All constituent organizations contribute their voices and perspectives, enriching the magazine’s content. The dedicated editorial team, as the driving force, is constantly seeking out fresh, captivating, and meaningful content that resonates with veterans and their families. This dedication is further amplified by the invaluable contributions from the BNTVA and the Cold War Network. Their involvement ensures a steady flow of high-quality, veteran-focused content for future issues, guaranteeing a diverse and informative reading experience.
Beyond Veteran Stories: A Platform for Connection
Exposure isn’t just about sharing veterans’ stories – it’s about fostering community and connection. The magazine recognizes the importance of helping veterans reconnect with old comrades and share their experiences. This is why they actively encourage reader participation. Exposure wants to hear from you if you’re a veteran with a story or simply looking to reconnect with fellow veterans. Email Steve in writing or by email at editor@exposure.press. Your stories have the power to inspire, educate, and connect not only with fellow veterans but with a broader audience interested in the unique experiences and sacrifices of those who served.
A Look Ahead: A Magazine That Evolves with its Community
Exposure magazine isn’t afraid to evolve. By embracing veteran-centric content and actively seeking reader contributions, the magazine demonstrates its commitment to serving the veteran community. This commitment ensures that Exposure remains a valuable resource, a platform for sharing stories, and a bridge that connects veterans, their families, and the broader community. As the veteran community and its needs evolve, so too will Exposure, adapting its content and approach to continue serving its readers in the most meaningful way possible.
Anisha Worbs – Director OVA
Anisha is the newly appointed director of the Office for Veterans Affairs. Unfortunately, she was not able to attend the event in person, but she recorded an exceptional, warm, welcoming, and very well-received video address. In her address, she shared her vision for the future of our organisations and expressed her excitement at being able to work with us.
As we have stated, the OVA made a significant funding grant to our Community Care Check programme, and we are committed to maintaining and strengthening our collaborative relationship with them for the benefit of our people.
Dr Chris Hill & Dr John Hogg – Nuclear Voices Project
Chris and John gave a lively entertaining presentation on the progress of their far-reaching project to capture the voices of our nuclear veterans describing their experiences of the tests. The project funded by the OVA is well on its way and many veterans have been interviewed by the team.
If you are approached by them please agree to have an interview this will form the core of a fantastic historical resource for our descendants. More details on the progress of the project can be found www.ntvhistory.uk
Prof. Rhona Anderson – Centre for the Health Effects of Radiological and Chemical Agents
Rhona gave an update of the research conducted by the centre, discussing methodologies and findings.
Nigel Heaps MBE – Big Ideas Remember Together Project
Big Ideas were unable to attend the Convention, they asked Nigel if he could deliver the presentation on their behalf.
Four films from the OVA Funded Big Ideas “Remember Together: Nuclear Test Veterans project.”
Big Ideas wanted to put Nuclear Test Veterans’ stories at the heart of this work. They ran an education campaign to teach young people about this little known part of our history and alongside that an outreach programme giving community groups the opportunity to hear their stories.
Four short films featuring veterans being interviewed by young adults were then shown to the convention. The films were very emotive and more than one member of the audience was moved to tears.
The Big Ideas team hoped that guests enjoyed the Remember Together films and want to thank everyone in the veteran community for their support in sharing these stories. Thousands of people have watched these films in every part of the British Isles. Events have taken place in schools, older people’s groups, online and in person, the Air Cadets, the Imperial War Museum, the National Army Museum, Bodmin Keep Museum and Leeds Armed Forces Festival
Ian Hall – Revitalise Respite Breaks – Prize Draw
Revitalise, an organisation providing respite breaks at centred in the UK kindly donated a short break. A free prize draw was held and one lucky couple are now heading for a short break at the Sandpipers location in Southport.
Dr Peter Robinson – Cold War Network
Bridging the Cold War Divide:
The Cold War Network Expands, Offering New Opportunities for Collaboration and Participation Peter’s captivating presentation at the convention delved into the fascinating origins of the Cold War Network. Rooted in academic research on Cold War nostalgia and tourism experiences in both Eastern and Western Europe, the network has blossomed into a vibrant community over the past 18 months.
From Academic Inquiry to Inclusive Network:
The Cold War Network’s story began with a compelling research project: “Remembering the Cold War: Nostalgia and Experiences of Cold War Tourism.” This exploration laid the groundwork for a more ambitious endeavour – a network transcending academic boundaries.
Uniting a Diverse Community of Stakeholders:
Over the past year and a half, the Cold War Network has fostered an inclusive environment for many stakeholders. Major institutions like the Imperial War Museum and English Heritage share the platform with smaller museums, private collections, and even individuals passionate about the Cold War era. This diversity allows for a rich exchange of perspectives and expertise.
Beyond the Walls: Podcasts, Vehicles, and More:
The network extends its reach beyond traditional museums and historical societies. Cold War enthusiasts who produce podcasts and maintain military vehicle collections find a home within the network, further enriching the overall experience for all members.
Looking Ahead: A Collaborative Future for Cold War Exploration
The Cold War Network’s commitment to inclusivity and multi-faceted exploration promises a dynamic future. This collaborative platform empowers diverse stakeholders to share knowledge, resources, and perspectives, ensuring a deeper understanding of the Cold War era for a wider audience.
The challenges facing the CWN in the next 12 months are:
- Development of legal and operating structure
- Decisions about regional structures and funding
- Exploration of member benefits
- Future Cold War Network Events – Regional and National
- Evolution of the Steering Group to be a Management Board
- Submission of a major AHRC grant
- Smaller collaborative projects between members
- A shared exhibition
- Development of public engagement strategies
Cold War Comes Alive at the Convention: Vehicle Display
The 2024 Nuclear Community Convention witnessed a successful debut collaboration between the NCCF and other members of the Cold War Network. A captivating display of restored Cold War-era military vehicles were at the venue during the Saturday, offering a unique and engaging experience for our guests.
Veterans Reconnect Through History:
The exhibition resonated deeply with veterans present at the convention. Alan Rawsterne’s meticulously restored Austin Champ triggered a wave of poignant memories. Veterans shared stories of operating and maintaining these vehicles during their service, creating a powerful sense of connection to the past.
Positive Feedback Fuels Future Expansion:
The positive experiences reported by both convention guests and vehicle owners bode well for future collaborations. The NCCF, recognising the immense interest, plans to expand this aspect of the event in 2025.
A Glimpse into the Future: Public Event at the NMA
Building on this success, the 2025 plans include a more extensive public event at the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) on the following Sunday. This expanded event promises to attract a wider audience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the Cold War era and its significance.
Overall, the vehicle display at the convention marked a significant step forward for the BNTVA Museum and the NCCF’s collaboration with the Cold War Network. The positive reception paves the way for future events that bridge the gap between history and the public, offering a unique and engaging way to explore the Cold War period.
Presidents Dinner
On Saturday evening, convention guests enjoyed a special dinner hosted by the president. To foster local connections, attendees were strategically seated with others from their geographic region.
Coach Trip to the NMA and Remembrance Service
On the Sunday morning a complementary coach trip was provided to visit the British Nuclear Test Veterans Association memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas. The Very Reverend Nicholas Frayling conducted a simple act of remembrance at the memorial.
Following their return to the hotel guest made their farewells and departed for home.
Success, Impact, Repetition
We have received amazing feedback on the event covering everything from Speakers, Subjects and Meals to Accommodation. Many asked if we could repeat the event next year! Since the end of the convention the NCCF has reviewed all feedback and results from the event and is pleased to announce that it will be funding it again for 2025. As per many requests we will use the same hotel and run the event around a similar date.
Important News
The Nuclear Community Convention 2025 will be held at the same location, Hilton Hotel East Midlands Airport on May 16th to the 18th, 2025. You can register your interest by emailing office@thenccf.org or by calling 01158 883 442.
If you call leave a message on the answer machine telling us you would like to register for the conference and clearly leave your name and telephone number for us to get back to you.
Further details regarding the event and directions will be published in the Winter Edition of Exposure Magazine in December/January.
