Visit to Chernihiv’s Veteran Hub Серцевір

Recently, Jordan had the profound privilege of visiting the Серцевір Veteran Hub in Chernihiv, Ukraine. This visit offered an up-close view of the incredible work that is being done to support those who have served on the front lines of Ukraine’s defence.

The Veteran Hub in Chernihiv is a centre dedicated to the provision of comprehensive support for Ukraine’s servicemen and women, veterans, and their families. The specialist centre serves as a community space where those who have given their all for the defence of freedom can access round the clock psychological support, legal advice, employment and reintegration programmes, community networks, and peer-to-peer assistance. What makes this centre special is that the care and support provided is crafted and delivered by veterans, for veterans.

What We Saw and Heard

During our visit, we were struck by the resilience, dignity, and determination of the professionals we met and the genuine desire to support those who bare the scars of this horrific war. It was impressive to see how with limited resources and limited staff provision the centre was able to offer quality support and care for people who have faced unimaginable challenges — physical injury, psychological trauma, and the loss of friends and comrades. Whilst it was encouraging to see what had been achieved it was clear that this initiative requires additional sponsorship, and structured, long-term support.

What makes places like this Veteran Hub so vital is not just the services they provide but the sense of community and belonging they foster. Veterans returning from active service often struggle to transition back to civilian life. This can include navigating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), re-establishing family and social relationships, and finding meaningful employment after the horrors of combat. Support structures like those that we witnessed in Chernihiv play an essential role in that transition, and they serve as a model on how societies can care for those who have defended them.

Why Supporting Veterans Matters

Supporting Ukraine’s veterans aligns with Kent With Ukraine’s core mission: that no defender is left behind. These men and women have given so much to protect their homeland and the freedom and security of Europe.  

Cllr. Jordan Meade said: ‘As we develop the connections between Kent and the Chernihiv region, from our humanitarian aid missions to our civic partnerships, it is fundamental that we include veteran support as a central pillar of that work. The successful rehabilitation and reintegration of Ukraine’s defenders contribute directly to the strength of Ukraine’s future and the peace and prosperity of Europe’.

Kent With Ukraine’s Commitment

Kent With Ukraine has always been rooted in unity through action. Since the launch of our grassroots efforts our focus has been on sustainable, people-centred support and that is why following this visit we will return to the UK with a renewed focus on how we can mobilise support for this and similar initiatives across the Chernihiv region.

This visit to the Veteran Hub reaffirmed our commitment to veterans and their families. We will continue to work with partners in Ukraine and the UK to:

• Raise awareness of veteran needs and experiences

• Mobilise resources to support veteran services and rehabilitation programmes

• Build long-term partnerships that strengthen both Kent and Ukrainian communities

  
  

Looking Ahead

The courage and determination that we witnessed during this visit inspires us to do more. We will be sharing further updates on how supporters can get involved in veteran-focused initiatives. Please get in touch with us if you or your organisation can support with this noble endeavour.

Find out more about the centre and their amazing work here: www.sercevir.com