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Welfare for the Armed Forces (Army, Navy, RAF) and Blue Light (Police, Fire, NHS) and their families. Both day-to-day and in crisis. Welfare Creating Positive, Impactful Change Welfare support should never be a battle. At the AFBC CIC, we believe that serving personnel, veterans, and their families deserves more than ticking boxes and waiting lists. You deserve real, physical, human support from people who understand the journey and care about the outcome. Our welfare services are built around five key areas: Education, Community, Housing, Occupation and Self-Awareness. We call this Op ECHOS. Each area is led by trusted in-house professionals who take the time to listen, understand and guide. Whether you're struggling with housing, seeking therapy, exploring new career paths or just need a conversation without judgment, we are here for you, for as long as it takes. Our Story The AFBC CIC was created by our founders, who have lived through the same challenges we support the community to overcome. We recognised a broken system that left too many behind, short-term fixes, inaccessible services, and far too much red tape. So we built something different. Our welfare model is not about charity. It's about restoring control, confidence and dignity. We removed the barriers that stop people from getting help and replaced them with a community that walks with you every step of the way. No forms to fight through. No hoops to jump. Just meaningful support, when and where you need it. It should not be only in crisis; you should be provided the tools for empowerment daily. Meet The Team Education & Personal Development Whether you're starting over or looking to grow, we support your development through guidance on training, qualifications and personal growth, so you can build the future you want with the tools you need. Book in for a chat Career & Employment Looking for a new direction or returning to work after service? Our employment specialists help you unlock your potential, develop new skills and connect with meaningful job opportunities that match your strengths. Book in for a chat Mental Health & Therapy We believe in mental health support without stigma. Our in-house therapists and wellbeing team provide confidential, one-to-one support tailored to your needs. Whether it's trauma, anxiety, or just feeling stuck, we are here to help you move forward. Book in for a chat Housing Support We believe in mental health support without stigma. Our in-house therapists and wellbeing team provide confidential, one-to-one support tailored to your needs. Whether it's trauma, anxiety or just feeling stuck, we are here to help you move forward. Book in for a chat Financial Guidance Worried about debt, budgeting or long-term financial planning? Our finance professionals give clear, practical advice to help you take control of your money and build lasting confidence. Book in for a chat Op eration ECHOS

Expert business growth support for startups, SMEs, and employee welfare. Launch, grow, and sustain with AFBC. Business Building businesses with precision, purpose and people-first values Whether you are launching a new idea, scaling an SME or strengthening your workforce, The AFBC CIC supports businesses at every stage of the journey. Our Business Support pillar is built on discipline, structure and lived experience. This does not just come from the forces community but from the realities of business growth itself. We work with founders, leaders and teams across all sectors and backgrounds. You do not have to be military to benefit. But the mindset that shapes our strategies comes straight from the front line. That means clarity, commitment and action with purpose. Our Story Too many businesses are left to navigate growth alone. One-size-fits-all advice, shallow mentorship, and surface-level benefits do not create sustainable organisations. We created these solutions using the values and structure that make military personnel some of the most capable operators in the world. We combine practical business strategy with a human-first approach. Everything is designed to help you launch faster, grow stronger and retain great people. Whether you are starting from scratch or ready to lead from the front, we are here to guide, support and elevate you. The Op's Op Forge The Startup Accelerator You have got the idea. Now it is time to build. Op Forge is our startup accelerator for founders at the beginning of their journey. Designed for new entrepreneurs and founders who want to launch with confidence and clarity, this programme offers expert guidance on turning ideas into viable, value-driven businesses. Support is available every step of the way. What is included: Business planning Group mentorship session Legal structure, registration and governance guidance Branding, marketing and communications support Financial planning and funding advice Peer networking and accountability circles Whether you are launching your first idea or starting again with a new mission, Op Forge helps you build with purpose. Invest in your future Now Op Elevate The Growth Incubator Your business is working. Now let us help it grow. Op Elevate is designed for small and medium-sized businesses that are ready to move from stability into a phase of confident growth. Growth brings new challenges. These include people, systems, funding and long-term strategy. Our team works with you to strengthen your operations and leadership without losing sight of your original mission. What is included: Growth and performance planning Cashflow and financial structure reviews Recruitment and team development advice Culture and leadership development Access to partnerships and procurement pathways Brand audit Brand evolution Media and Marketing audit Brand presence audit Business consultancy 1-to-1 Mentorship Personal Brand Audit Personal growth strategy Op Elevate helps you build structure around your success so you can go further. Invest in your business Now Op Sustain Employee Welfare and Benefits Package Strong businesses are built on strong people. Op Sustain is our premium employee support service. It is based on the same model we use to transform lives in the community, now adapted for the workplace. When teams feel supported and secure, they work better, stay longer and contribute more. This is not a tick-box benefit. It is real support with real results, available privately and professionally to your staff. What is included: Direct access to our in-house experts in mental health, housing, finance and career development for your employees. Support built around our ECHOS model: Education, Community, Housing, Occupation and Self-Awareness Manager development in trauma-informed leadership Ongoing wellbeing reporting and engagement review Support network for your employees Career and progression support for each team member Op Sustain helps you build a workplace where people feel proud to belong. Invest in your team Now Take control back in your business; work on it, not in it.

Contact us today! Book in for a bru or give us a call, the AFBC team is here to support you 24 hours a day 365 days a year! CONTACT US Name Email Phone Subject Message I want to subscribe to the newsletter. Submit Thanks for submitting! info@yourafbc.org 01206 986 919

Learn how we rigorously comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations to ensure our business operations uphold the highest financial integrity and security standards. Discover our commitment to preventing financial crimes and maintaining a trustworthy environment for our customers. Our dedication to AML compliance protects both our operations and your interests.

Discover our Colchester recording studio—a creative hub for all media needs. Experience our Colchester recording studio services today! Home About Us What We Do Contact STUDIO Get Involved Your AFBC Book Online More Colchester Recording Studio, Your Complete Creative Hub Welcome to your blank canvas for creativity in Essex. Our state-of-the-art studio offers a versatile space designed to meet all your media production needs. Whether you’re an independent artist, a business professional, or a creative team looking to produce top-quality audio and visual content. Discover our Colchester recording studio, a versatile space to bring your creative visions to life. From podcasts to music, our equipment and facilities ensure your projects shine. Start creating today! The Ultimate Recording Studio Experience Our facility is more than just a studio; it’s a fully integrated creative hub. We provide a full recording studio for music, voiceovers, podcasts, and more. With both dry hire and fully equipped wet hire options available, you have the freedom to choose exactly what you need, no more, no less. Our flexible options ensure that every project, from intimate podcast sessions to large-scale music production, is handled with the utmost professionalism. Features & Benefits What makes us stand out? Non-Profit All revenue generated goes back to the Community Full Recording Studio Our cutting-edge studio is perfect for professional recording sessions, delivering crystal-clear sound for any project. Video Creation From music videos to corporate presentations, our space can be adapted for high-quality video production. On-Site Production Enjoy the convenience of on-site production services tailored to your project requirements. Green Room Relax and prepare in our comfortable Green Room, designed for talent and guests alike. Social & Business Media Create compelling content for your social media channels and business needs in our versatile environment. Wet Or Dry Hire Choose between hiring just the space (dry) or enjoying the benefits of our fully equipped setup (wet), depending on your production needs. Podcast Production Elevate your podcast with our dedicated setup that ensures premium audio quality. Product Media Showcase your products with professional audio and video support. Equipment Hire Access top-tier equipment to bring your creative vision to life without any hassle. A Local Space for Global Creatives Located in the heart of Colchester, our studio is designed to inspire. Whether you’re producing a hit single, recording a podcast, or creating engaging video content for your business, our studio provides the ideal environment to nurture creativity and innovation. With professional-grade equipment and a team dedicated to supporting your production, every detail is taken care of so you can focus on what you do best; creating great content. Why Choose Us? Tailor your production process with options that fit both small-scale projects and large-scale productions. Our experienced team is on hand to assist with technical setup, production guidance, and creative collaboration. With our central location in Colchester, Essex, accessing top-quality media production services has never been easier. Choose the level of support you need, whether that’s just the space or a fully managed production environment. Embrace the future of media production with a recording studio that is as dynamic and adaptable as your creative vision. Interested in how we can support you? Contact us below to find out. Submit Awsome, We will be in contact! Home About Us Projects FAQ Your AFBC App Support Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions AML Donate Paypal Copyright © All Rights Reserved 2024 The Armed Forces Business Center CIC.

The AFBC projects enable us to create positive impactful change! Come find out more or how to get involved in our latest projects! WHAT WE DO Creating Positive Impactful Change. At AFBC CIC, we deliver lifelong, barrier-free support to the Armed Forces, Blue Light and NHS communities, including their families. Whether you are currently serving, a veteran, or finding your way after service, we are here to walk beside you with care and expertise. Our approach is different. We do not offer quick fixes or impersonal handouts. Instead, we provide a holistic support model built around real people and real lives. Through our three core pillars: Welfare, Business, and Community, we address the root causes rather than just the symptoms. From professional mental health guidance and housing advice, to bespoke employee wellbeing services and a safe, welcoming space that belongs to the community, everything we do is built to restore independence, confidence and purpose. We are not a charity. We are a Community Interest Company, governed as a non-profit, powered like a business, and driven by lived experience to serve the community. Every penny is reinvested, and every decision is made with people in mind. There are no barriers. No judgement. Just action that creates lasting change. Welfare Support Business Support Community Hub

Founding Patron A Mark of Distinction The AFBC Founding Patron programme is a mark of prestige. It is reserved for a small number of businesses whose values reflect leadership, service, and community excellence. Becoming a Founding Patron is not a donation. It is a strategic partnership that strengthens your brand while helping us deliver world-class facilities and support for the armed forces and blue light communities. Join our current Sponsors What it means to be a Founding Patron Founding Patron status is awarded to organisations that step forward to be recognised as champions of purpose-led business. It tells your clients, employees, and community that you stand for resilience, leadership, and lasting impact. Your name will sit alongside AFBC as part of an elite circle that shares our commitment to innovation and service. Which Founding Patron Tier will you champion Bronze Founding Patron £100 Monthly Logo on the AFBC website and social media recognition Official certificate of Founding Patron status for display in your workplace 5% discount on any Op Sustain, Op Elevate, or Op Forge package for 12 months Priority booking for AFBC Hub facilities Secure your place now Silver Founding Patron £225 Monthly All Bronze benefits Logo placement in the AFBC Hub for 12 months 10% discount on any Op Sustain, Op Elevate, or Op Forge package for 12 months One complimentary full-day hire of AFBC Hub space Invitation to the AFBC Patron networking event Secure your place now Gold Founding Patron £5,000 Annually All Silver benefits 15% discount on any Op Sustain, Op Elevate, or Op Forge package for 12 months Featured case study on the AFBC website and in media releases One VIP table at the AFBC annual gala or flagship event “Gold Founding Patron” digital badge for your marketing and recruitment Secure your place now Platinum Founding Patron £10,000 Annually All Gold benefits Lifetime Founding Patron recognition on AFBC’s Honour Wall (physical and digital) Exclusive private strategy session with AFBC leadership to explore joint projects and collaborations Two VIP tables at the AFBC annual gala or flagship event Annual team-building day at the AFBC Hub for up to 20 of your staff, incorporating leadership training with military precision First refusal on all premium sponsorship opportunities before public release “Platinum Founding Patron” elite badge for your marketing, with permission to use in all corporate communications Priority media inclusion in any AFBC press opportunities Company Logo added to AFBC Hub Signage Secure your place now Why this partnership matters Your sponsorship allows AFBC to continue operating a space that brings people together, fosters opportunity, and provides professional welfare support. The Hub serves veterans, blue light personnel, and their families, giving them a place to connect, learn, and grow. By becoming a Founding Patron, you help maintain a resource that strengthens the community while gaining lasting recognition for your business. How to apply Founding Patron places are strictly limited and awarded on a first-come basis. Once filled, no further places will be available until the next cycle. To register your interest, contact us today to secure your place and join the AFBC network of leaders. Or immediately secure your place now It's a community that needs you, our great businesses, to shape it

The AFBC is a holistic hub of lifetime support for current serving members of the Armed Forces, Emergency Services, Veterans and your Families. DONATE Complete the donation form below to get in touch for donations, fundraising, or donations via PayPal below. Paypal 24/7 PHONE SUPPORT No matter the time we will be here to talk 9:00am - 17:00pm 01206 986 919 Out of Hours 07934128255 In-Person Come and visit us in person at our Colchester branch 9:00am - 17:00pm Monday - Friday Saturday - Sunday Appointment only Book Here In Person Book Here to meet online Connect with us Submit Thanks for submitting!

Need some support with the application? Come find out all the frequently asked questions and let's get this problem solved! App Support If you are experiencing an issue with The AFBC App, please fill out the contact form below to contact the support team or Email us at support@yourafbc.org Support Request First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

The AFBC is a holistic hub of lifetime support for current serving members of the Armed Forces, Emergency Services, Veterans and your Families. Privacy Policy for Armed Forces Business Centre CIC Introduction Armed Forces Business Centre CIC ("we", "us", or "our") respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This privacy policy will inform you as to how we look after your personal data when you visit our website (regardless of where you visit it from), use our app, or visit our physical location, and tell you about your privacy rights and how the law protects you. Important Information and Who We Are Purpose of This Privacy Policy This privacy policy aims to give you information on how Armed Forces Business Centre CIC collects and processes your personal data through your use of this website, our app, and within our physical location. This includes any data you may provide through the website when you sign up for our newsletter, purchase a product or service, Sign up for our App or take part in a competition. Controller Armed Forces Business Centre CIC is the controller and responsible for your personal data. Contact Details: Address: 21 Lexden Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3PT. Phone: 01206 986 919 Email: Support@yourafbc.org For EU residents, our Data Protection Officer (DPO) appointed is Mr Christopher Ali. You can contact them In writing at: AFBC, Mr Christopher Ali, 21 Lexden Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3PT. or by email: support@yourAFBC.org The Data We Collect About You We may collect, use, store, and transfer different kinds of personal data about you which we have grouped together as follows: Identity Data includes first name, last name, username or similar identifier, marital status, title, date of birth, gender and Identification documents. Contact Data includes billing address, delivery address, email address, and telephone numbers. Financial Data includes bank account and payment card details. Transaction Data includes details about payments to and from you and other details of products and services you have purchased from us. Technical Data includes internet protocol (IP) address, your login data, browser type and version, time zone setting and location, browser plug-in types and versions, operating system and platform, and other technology on the devices you use to access this website. Profile Data includes your username and password, purchases or orders made by you, your interests, preferences, feedback, and survey responses. Usage Data includes information about how you use our website, app, and services. Marketing and Communications Data includes your preferences in receiving marketing from us and our third parties and your communication preferences. How We Use Your Personal Data We will only use your personal data when the law allows us to. Most commonly, we will use your personal data in the following circumstances: Where we need to perform the contract we are about to enter into or have entered into with you. Where it is necessary for our legitimate interests (or those of a third party) and your interests and fundamental rights do not override those interests. Where we need to comply with a legal obligation. For the purpose of identification of serving within a relevant service or link to service personal. Data Retention We will only retain your personal data for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes we collected it for, including for the purposes of satisfying any legal, accounting, or reporting requirements. Your Legal Rights Under certain circumstances, you have rights under data protection laws concerning your personal data, including the right to access, correct, erase, object to processing, and request data portability. Children's Privacy Our primary services do not address anyone under the age of 18 ("Children"). We do not knowingly collect personally identifiable information from children without consent from a parent or guardian. If you are a parent or guardian and you are aware that your child has provided us with personal data, please contact us. Changes to the Privacy Policy We may update our Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page. Contact Us If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please get in touch with us: By email: info@yourafbc.org By visiting this page on our website By phone: 01206 986 919 By mail: 21 Lexden Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3PT.

The AFBC is a holistic hub of lifetime support for current serving members of the Armed Forces, Emergency Services, Veterans and your Families.

Are you bored of working from home all week? Do you need space to have that private meeting? Does your club need a room to rent? From hot desking to function room hire the AFBC has a plan for you! Elevate you Brand by becoming a Founding Patron And give back to the community that serve you at the same time Bronze Founding Patron £ 100 100£ Every month Valid for 12 months Secure you position now Logo on AFBC website and social media recognition Official certificate of Founding Patron statues 5% discount on, Op Forge, Elevate and Sustain Priority booking fo AFBC Hub facilities Best Value Silver Founding Patron £ 225 225£ Every month Valid for 12 months Secure you position now All Bronze Benefits Logo Placement Within the AFBC Hub while a patron "Silver Founding Patron” digital badge for your marketing 10% discount on Op Sustain, Forge and Elevate One complimentary full-day hire of AFBC Hub space Invitation to the AFBC Patron networking event Gold Founding Patron £ 5,000 5,000£ Valid for 12 months Secure you position now All Silver benefits 15% discount on any Op Sustain, Op Elevate, or Op Forge Featured case study on the AFBC website and in media release One VIP table at the AFBC annual gala or flagship event “Gold Founding Patron” digital badge for your marketing “Gold Founding Patron” Plaque to display Platinum Founding Patron £ 10,000 10,000£ Secure you position now All Gold benefits Lifetime Founding Patron recognition on AFBC’s Honour Wall Exclusive private strategy session with AFBC leadership Two VIP tables at the AFBC annual gala or flagship event Annual team-building day at the AFBC Hub for up to 20 First refusal on all premium sponsorship opportunities “Platinum Founding Patron” elite badge for your marketing Platinum Founding Patron Physical Plaque Priority media inclusion in any AFBC press opportunities

Discover The Armed Forces Business Centre (AFBC) - your comprehensive support hub dedicated to empowering service members of the Armed Forces and Emergency Services, Veterans, and their Families through education, business mentoring, property advice and education, community support, and more. Join us in creating positive, impactful change. Members Read More Folowers Read More Groups Read More Forums Read More Education Read More

Community A place to belong. A space to connect. A hub to call your own. The AFBC Community Hub is your space. Open, welcoming and rooted in purpose, it is here for the Armed Forces, Blue Light and NHS communities, including families. Whether you are looking for somewhere to meet, to work, to relax, or just to be, the hub is yours to use in the way that fits your life. This is more than a centre. It is a living, breathing home base for a community that deserves more than handouts and tick-box sessions. This is your space, and we are proud to share it with you. Our Story The hub was created to be a foundation, not a lifeline. It is a space where human connection comes first. Whether you are newly posted, finding your feet or simply looking for somewhere to belong, this is your home from home. The AFBC Community Hub offers more than support; it offers space. Space to meet, to relax, to work, to create. We believe the right environment brings people together and opens doors. From chill-out rooms and meeting spaces to our recording studio, library, games room and flexible offices, the hub is shaped by what our community needs. Some come here to focus. Others to breathe. Many just need somewhere that feels like theirs. This is that place. Your place. The Hub Chill-Out Rooms Quiet, comfortable spaces to unwind, reflect or reset. No questions. No expectations. Just calm. No need to book, come and relax Function Room A spacious, adaptable room for hosting workshops, gatherings, briefings or celebrations. Whether it is a community meeting or a special occasion, this space brings people together. Book now* *Community use discountent rate Community-Led Events Workshops, socials and gatherings shaped by you. Open to all and driven by what matters most to our members. Find our upcoming events Recording Studio A creative space to record podcasts, music, video or digital content. Fully equipped and ready to use for community-led projects and storytelling. Learn more Meeting and Office Space Flexible rooms for planning, working, collaborating or starting something new. Available for individuals, small groups or growing ventures. Book Now* Games Room and Library Relaxed areas to read, play, socialise or simply take time for yourself. No need to book, come and relax It's a community hub that needs you, the community, to shape it Our Colchester Branch Address 21 Lexden Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3PT Contact 01206 986 919 info@yourafbc.org Opening Hours Mon - Fri 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday Contact to find our availability Sunday By Appointment

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Learn about AFBC's mission and our dedication to community service involvement, creating positive change for the entire community. ABOUT US Our mission at The AFBC is to provide "Positive, Impactful Change to current serving and veteran members of the Armed Forces and Blue Light Community (Police, Fire, NHS), including their Families." We deliver holistic assistance to the community through our four pillars: Community Hub , Welfare Support , Business Support , Advocacy . Utilising these pillars, we endeavour to empower our members (The community) in the five critical areas of their lives. We call this Op eration ECHOS (E ducation, C ommunity, H ousing, O ccupation, S elf-Awareness). At the Armed Forces Business Centre, we are committed to a singular, enduring promise: to provide lifetime support to our Armed Forces and Emergency Service community. Our mission transcends beyond assistance; we strive to equip serving members and their families with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary for sustained success and well-being, both during and after service. Founded in 2024, the first AFBC was opened in Colchester, Essex, by Deputy Lord Lieutenant Mr Hugh Toler MBE DL in a historic moment in Forces support. Our journey began with the inspiring vision of our three founders: Miss Robyn Lockwood (Royal Navy), Mr Brendan Blair (British Army) and Mr Christopher Ali (British Army). Their personal experiences of service, personal life and transition to civilian life set the foundations for our commitment to providing lifelong holistic support to those who dedicate themselves to serving our country. It is their aspiration to forge a future in which every member of the Armed Forces and Emergency Services, along with their families, experiences unwavering support. Established by veterans who understand the value of foresight, preparation and collaboration, The AFBC stands as a testament to proactive Holistic support and aspires to be the perpetual pillar on which they can lean, offering a sanctuary of resources, guidance, and community support that continues to enrich their lives. This mission can not be achieved alone; it must be achieved through collective collaboration and interoperability of all who wish to make a difference.

Join AFBC for impactful volunteer opportunities. Help fundraise, donate, or raise awareness to support our mission. Explore Volunteer Opportunities with The AFBC Take action. Stand with those who serve. Be part of the mission. We believe in the power of community and action. We offer diverse volunteer opportunities to make a real difference for those who serve. The AFBC is built by people who act. From day one, everything we have delivered has been made possible by those who choose to get involved. That includes fundraisers, donors, volunteers, supporters and anyone who uses their time or voice to help push this mission forward. Join us in fundraising, donating, or raising awareness to support impactful programs that cut through red tape and deliver results. Your involvement matters. You do not need a service background. If you believe in what we do, there is a place for you here. Explore volunteer opportunities with The AFBC today. Our Story AFBC was never created to wait for change. It was created to make it happen. We do not rely on government funding or slow-moving systems. We rely on people and revenue generated from working with businesses. That is how we move fast, meet needs early and offer support that is free from red tape. Getting involved means being part of that work. Whether you are raising money, offering time or using your platform to share the truth, you are helping provide the kind of support that actually works. This is not a campaign. It is a movement. And it needs people who are ready to stand up and do something real. How To Be Involved Fundraise Raising money gives us the power to act without delay. Every pound raised goes directly into the services and support we deliver to our community. Whether you run your own fundraiser, join one of ours or partner with us through your business, we will help you get it off the ground. From community events to team challenges, we are ready to support your ideas and help you turn them into impact. Donate Making a donation is one of the simplest ways to create impact. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us deliver real support without delay, without conditions and without compromise. You can donate once or set up a regular gift. You can give in your name, your business’s name or in memory of someone you care about. However you choose to give, it goes straight into empowering. Donate Here Raise Awareness We do not need spokespeople. We need truth tellers. When you talk about AFBC, you help someone else find support. When you speak openly about life after service, you help someone else feel seen. Awareness creates connection, and connection saves time, stress and sometimes lives. You can share our work online, host a talk, get your business involved, or simply bring us into conversations that matter. We will give you the tools. You bring the honesty. Volunteer We do not need polished professionals. We need people who show up. Volunteers at The AFBC help with everything from events and logistics to one-to-one support, practical help at the hub, and simply being someone others can rely on. You do not need qualifications. You do not need a fixed amount of time. You just need to care. Tell us what you can offer, and we will find the right way to put it to use. The smallest of actions can make the biggest of impacts Submit Thanks for submitting!

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