Commonwealth Military Hub Aldershot

The Commonwealth Military Hub in Aldershot is the 1st a community support initiative, launching on the 20th June 2026 in partnership with Op Belonging, UK Veterans From The Commonwealth (UKVC) and Aldershot FC’s Shots Foundation, aimed at creating a space for military families and veterans to connect and belong beyond the boundaries of service.

What it is

This 1st hub is part of a wider “Commonwealth Military Hubs” network focused on supporting military families and veterans across armed forces communities. The aim is to help people “belong beyond boundaries” and provide support during and after service. Based on the 4H Model of life after and beyond the military developed by Samuel T. Reddy, Founder of Op Belonging.

Aldershot connection

Aldershot is already a major military centre and is widely known as the home of the British Army, with existing military-community support structures in the area. The Aldershot hub is presented as the first model to be replicated elsewhere in the UK. Aldershot Garrison was established in the 1850s amid the Crimean War and grew into a hub for the British Empire’s army, hosting soldiers from Commonwealth nations like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and India, whose contributions shaped its legacy. The Aldershot Military Cemetery holds the graves of nearly 17,000 personnel from nine nations, including Commonwealth War Graves Commission memorials for casualties of World Wars I and II, linking it directly to shared Commonwealth sacrifices.

Aldershot football club connection

The club holds groundbreaking Gold Status in the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme, the first professional football club to achieve it, reflecting deep ties to Aldershot’s military community. Their Shots Foundation runs a monthly Veterans Hub at the EBB Stadium, offering free food, drinks, guest speakers, and networking for veterans and families, partnering with groups like the Royal British Legion.

A word from the Chair of Shots Foundation, Sir John Casey

I am delighted to support the work of CIVIL MILITARY RELATIONS and Samuel T. Reddy in establishing the Commonwealth Military Hub to be hosted at Aldershot Town Football Club with the Shots Foundation. We are a gold award winner of the Armed Forces Corporate Covenant and consider it essential that we support the success of CIVIL MILITARY RELATIONS in providing support to Commonwealth members of the Armed Forces, their families and veterans. The CMH is needed and will undoubtedly be a success in the Aldershot area. I am happy to support this initiative.

What is the 20th of June about

A word from (Former Warrant Officer) Mr Sovanivalu Sakiasi Vice Chair of UK Veterans From the Commonwealth (UKVC) and coach at Leavers to Leaders.

Registration for participation is now open until the 16th of May

https://forms.gle/zqUXopSvpMixLWK26