The NAAFI Fund recently supported a project in Brunei, granting £30,000 to the UK Loan Service for a Community Centre revamp, renamed ‘The Library’.  Along with other funding from Nuffield Trust and Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, this grant has allowed them to create a brand-new recreational space, providing a much-needed social area for Armed Forces personnel and their partners to relax and unwind. 

Being stationed overseas can be tough, and having a place to de-stress and connect with others is crucial for mental well-being. This new space will help to: 

• Reduce isolation: By providing a welcoming environment where people can socialise and make friends. 

• Promote community cohesion: Encouraging interaction and fostering a sense of belonging among Armed Forces personnel and their families. 

• Improve quality of life: Offering a much-needed escape from the stresses of military life. 

The new recreational space is packed with features to help people relax and have fun, including comfortable seating areas for quiz nights, a TV for sporting events and movie nights and a pool table for that much needed relaxation time. 

The NAAFI Fund grant has made a huge difference to the UK Loan Service Community Centre and this new recreational space will be enjoyed by many for years to come, providing a valuable resource for Armed Forces personnel and their families. 

WO2 Tom McCabe said “The Library is a great addition to the community. It is a multi-functional space that I will utilise in a number of ways. Firstly, during working hours, it is a great quiet and relaxing space I can and have already used for some distance working, conference calls and relaxed environment interviews. Outside of working hours, it is of huge welfare and social benefits.” 

Cdr John Gray RN said “Thanks to the generosity of the NAAFI Fund, our new enhanced facility will enable us to provide a safe and secure social area.  Our personnel and spouses now have a shared space to meet up, creating important connections and friendships.  They can spend time together to watch sports, play games, decompress and chat.”  

If you think your local community hub is in need of a makeover using a NAAFI Fund grant, get in touch over on @naafisocial.