Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust proudly organised the three-day ‘Light & Shade’ exhibition at Worcester’s Guildhall from 7 to 9 November, coinciding with Remembrance Sunday. This moving event celebrated the courage and creativity of Armed Forces veterans, many of whom have received specialist mental health support through our Midlands Op COURAGE service.

Op COURAGE is an NHS mental health specialist service designed to help serving personnel due to leave the military, reservists, Armed Forces veterans and their families. Midlands Op COURAGE offers support across the region – from Lincolnshire in the east to Shropshire and Herefordshire in the west – ensuring that anyone who has served in the Armed Forces, regardless of when they left or how long they served, can access help.

The ‘Light & Shade’ exhibition featured emotive artwork, poetry and other creative expressions produced by veterans living in the West Midlands. Delivered in partnership with Caring Minds, STEPWAY and Art 4 Veterans, the event provided a unique opportunity for the public to explore the experiences of veterans through art, with free entry across all three days.

A powerful video was also showcased during the exhibition that captured veterans discussing the challenges of transitioning to civilian life and highlighted how creativity has supported their wellbeing. It also included advice for others leaving the Armed Forces who may be struggling to find the support they need. This visual storytelling added depth to the exhibition, reinforcing the importance of mental health and wellbeing support for those who have served.

The response from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with one visitor describing the exhibition on social media as a “powerful and highly emotional visual experience.” The event demonstrated the transformative role of art in recovery and the value of community support for veterans.

Speaking after the exhibition, Debbie Munden, Senior Art Psychotherapist at Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and project lead for the event, expressed gratitude to all involved. She said:

“We had such a powerful response from the public who commented how emotive the Veteran Arts Exhibition was to view. We would like to thank the veterans who participated for their courage to share their stories and unique experiences through their art pieces.”

Since April 2023, Midlands Op COURAGE has supported more than 3,000 veterans, service leavers, reservists and their families across both the East and West Midlands. Veterans, their families or health professionals can refer or self-refer to services by calling 0300 323 0137 or emailing mevs.mhm@nhs.net. For more information about Midlands Op COURAGE, its services and referral details, visit www.opcouragemidlands.nhs.uk.

Thank you to all Op COURAGE staff and partners who helped make this event such a success. Your dedication reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and their families across the Midlands.