VCHA Regional Lead, Anna-Marie Tipping and Assistant Regional Lead Ethal Sangasinha have been helping make poppies as part of an Alliance networking event at The Poppy Factory in Richmond, London.

They were joined by individuals from Hounslow and Richmond Community Healthcare NHS Trust, Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, along with representatives from the supported housing provider STOLL and the LGBT+ veterans charity Fighting with Pride.

Feedback from previous networks and events was that people wanted a space where they could talk from others in the Alliance in an informal environment.

As well as making poppies and wreaths the group also learnt more about the history of the poppy and the poppy factory.

Anna Marie said: “It was wonderful to make introductions to people who I have had the pleasure to build relationships with but who have not had the opportunity to meet each other.

“Creating spaces where healthcare professionals can share their experiences, ask questions and learn from each other is where the Alliance can become embedded within organisations.

“Knowing you are not working in a silo, and you have an Alliance ready and willing to support you can be so meaningful.

“I will be holding more of these in the South East and London and if an organisation would like to host one of these spaces, please let me know!”