British Veterans Conduct Voluntary Work for Heritage Malta and AFM

Press Release│ 8 May 2025

Ten British veterans are conducting voluntary work in Malta in collaboration with Heritage Malta and the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM), as part of the Alabaré project themed ‘Boots on the Ground’, happening from the 3rd till the 15th of May.

These veterans experienced hardship upon leaving the military and were supported by Alabaré – a leading homeless charity with homes and services across England and Wales. It has been transforming lives since 1991 and today offers support to the homeless, veterans, young people, those struggling with their mental wellbeing, and individuals with learning disabilities.

On Thursday 8th May – the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the Minister for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, the British High Commissioner to Malta, Cathy Ward, and Heritage Malta’s Chief Executive Officer, Noel Zammit, visited Fort Delimara to meet the volunteers and see the ongoing works.

The volunteer programme taking place in Malta is aimed at empowering veterans and providing them with a sense of belonging and an opportunity to enhance their resilience and self-esteem. The group of veterans taking part includes both male and female participants, the oldest being 67 years of age. Two of the veterans have participated in similar projects in Gibraltar over the past two years.

During the initial phase, the primary focus has been to aid in the preservation of Fort Delimara, a significant historic military site in Malta. Participants have engaged in hands-on work, including cleaning, rust removal and painting tasks. These efforts will help protect the fort’s structure and ensure that its historical features are preserved for future generations. Additionally, volunteers have had the opportunity to explore Malta’s rich cultural heritage through scheduled visits at various Heritage Malta sites. These excursions provided deeper insight into the island’s history, architecture and military significance, enhancing the veterans’ overall experience and appreciation of Malta’s past.

Minister Owen Bonnici remarked that, “This initiative reflects the heart of the veterans who, despite having their own challenges, chose to give back by contributing towards the preservation of our heritage. The ‘Boots on the Ground’ project is a clear example of how collaboration between nations can lead to results that increase both cultural and human value. I thank Heritage Malta, the Armed Forces of Malta and the Alabaré organisation for this initiative that fosters reciprocal respect and communal values.”

Heritage Malta’s Chief Executive Officer commended Alabaré for this initiative and thanked the volunteers for their meticulous work in support of Malta’s cultural heritage. He said that engaging in a volunteering opportunity with Heritage Malta is a rewarding and meaningful experience that embodies the true spirit of the agency’s slogan ‘Part of Us’, for both locals and foreigners.

Andrew Lord, Chief Executive Officer of Alabaré, said that, “This partnership between Alabaré, Armed Forces Malta, Heritage Malta and Visit Malta demonstrates the positive impact we can have on our communities when we work together. This group of veterans who have been supported by Alabaré have shown how the power of resilience and hope can transform lives.”