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The Poppy Factory

@thepoppyfactory.bsky.social
35 followers 29 following 48 posts

The Poppy Factory supports veterans with health conditions and their families to make progress on the path to employment.

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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
It was an honour to welcome the Chief of the Air Staff to talk about the national impact of our employment services. Around 1 in 10 of those we support served in the RAF - our team helps veterans and family members take flight in civilian jobs and careers. www.poppyfactory.org/supportservi...
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
If you're a veteran and you'd like to build your confidence, learn new skills and become more job-ready, Poppy Pathways might be for you. Our free five-day course is a chance to gain hands-on work experience and benefit from our specialist support. More here: poppyfactory.org/poppy-pathwa...
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
Last call for our suhmer art competition! We've already had some stunning entries. The deadline is Monday... To be in with a chance to win, send a photo of your artwork to visit@poppyfactory.org
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
It was our privilege to welcome members of the Shots Foundation, the charitable arm of @theshots.bsky.social, to The Poppy Factory this week - including veterans who know first-hand how challenging civilian life can be, for the people we support on the path to employment.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 12/08/2026
It's hard to describe a typical day at The Poppy Factory. So we're very pleased that The Factory Next Door came to capture it live for their latest podcast - featuring our Director of Production and the Estate, Jeff Short, and a visiting Harley Davidson chapter! open.spotify.com/episode/3z6f...
open.spotify.com
#51. The Remembrance Wreath – Making the red poppies commemorating the fallen
The Factory Next Door · Episode
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
Supporting a partner with complex PTSD while losing her career as a midwife led Nikkie almost to breaking point – until she found a new support network. The Poppy Factory and @theripplepond helped Nikkie regain confidence in herself and her future. www.poppyfactory.org/nikkie/
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 20/07/2026
We’re incredibly grateful to The Julia Rausing Trust for supporting our work with a significant new grant, a real vote of confidence in our ability to help veterans change their lives through employment. More here: www.poppyfactory.org/julia-rausin...
A photo of the late Julia Rausing
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 09/07/2026
Two of south west London’s best-kept secrets are joining forces for a special celebration involving a vintage steam engine fuelled by poppy power. We're proud of this partnership, forged through the Visit Richmond network via @richmondcouncil.bsky.social www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z20l...
youtube.com
Preview: The Poppy Factory Centenary Railway Weekend
YouTube video by The Poppy Factory
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 23/06/2026
The Armed Forces community makes an invaluable contribution to our country and our communities, and we are proud to support veterans and their families into employment. #ArmedForcesWeek #ArmedForcesWeek2026 #Veterans #ForcesFamily #SupportingVeterans
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 13/06/2026
After working together for more than 35 years in the service of Remembrance, our Special Wreath Makers, Peter Wills and Paul Hammerton, have each been awarded the BEM. We're extremely proud of Peter and Paul for achieving this great honour: www.poppyfactory.org/BEM/
poppyfactory.org
BEM for Special Wreath Makers
Peter Wills and Paul Hammerton, who have worked together for 35 years, are cited in The King’s Birthday Honours List for services to Remembrance.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
Self-confidence is so important when seeking a new job or career. If you're a veteran in the East of England, join us this Friday morning for a confidence-building workshop by the team who support veterans on the path to employment. Register: bit.ly/4alVUfy
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
We're kicking off #ArmedForcesWeek with a free open day on Monday 22 June, 10am-4pm. Meet our team and join a short guided tour, with tea/coffee and cake on offer as we celebrate 100 years in Richmond. Show your support ahead of #ArmedForcesDay! www.poppyfactory.org/open-day-2026/
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 01/06/2026
#VolunteersWeek is an opportunity for charities across the UK to celebrate the outstanding contributions of our volunteers, and a chance to recognise the value of volunteering as a way into a new job or career. poppyfactory.org/volunteers-week-2026
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 28/05/2026
When Ian left the Army after 20 years, he found civilian life challenging. Support through our Navigator service helped him create an Armed Forces support group at Tranmere Rovers FC – enabling ex-Forces fans to make new connections and find the help they need. www.poppyfactory.org/ian-tranmere...
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 25/03/2026
We're proud to unite with 6 other charities as part of the VALOUR programme, supporting veterans in the South West. Ex-forces personnel will soon be able to gain access to local services through ALABARÉ’s Riverside Sanctuary in Salisbury. More here: www.poppyfactory.org/valour-south-west
poppyfactory.org
Combining specialist support for veterans in SW England
The Poppy Factory is proud to unite with six other charities as part of the Government’s VALOUR programme, supporting veterans in the South West.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 08/01/2026
Fancy a hot choc and a piece of cake while discovering our 100+ year history? You'll stay warm by creating your own poppy to take home and having a go at Remembrance wreath making. Next visit is Wednesday 28 Jan at 12:30pm. Book now www.poppyfactory.org/discoverydays/
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 22/12/2025
Helping 1,200 veterans and family members to make progress on the path to employment would not be possible without the generous support of our many partners. A heartfelt thank-you everyone who has supported the work of our national services this year - wishing you all a very happy festive season.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 17/12/2025
Boom boom! We were bowled over by @realbasilbrush.bsky.social popping in to The Poppy Factory today while starring in Cinderella at Richmond Theatre. Basil met Peter in our Production team, a lifelong fan... Huge thanks to Nick Grace Management for inviting Basil to our shared Richmond home!
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 15/12/2025
Like many, Simon left the Army and found it hard to transition into civilian life, feeling very low and no sense of purpose. He was then diagnosed with #PTSD, and with the help of Andrew from our #employment team, he managed to gain confidence and start a new chapter. www.poppyfactory.org/simon/
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 11/11/2025
We were honoured to welcome players from the #WestHamUnited U12s team. In tribute to those who served, the players designed a wreath using the Club’s iconic Claret and Blue colours and the Club crest. www.whufc.com/news/west-ha...
whufc.com
West Ham United U12s visit The Poppy Factory | West Ham United F.C.
Ahead of our Remembrance Day fixture with Burnley, four members of West Ham United’s U12s squad visited the historic Poppy Factory in Richmond as part of a special educational and community project de...
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 07/11/2025
Yesterday our Patron, Her Majesty The Queen, opened the Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey. The Field of Remembrance is now open to the public until Sunday 16 November. Anyone may visit & pick up a tribute to plant in person to commemorate those who have lost their lives in the Armed Forces.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
Our dedicated team are once again busy preparing the Field of Remembrance at @westminsterabbey.bsky.social, open from Friday. We're proud that this year's Field features several new plots including those for @fightingwithpride.bsky.social and our partner charity @armybenevolentfund.bsky.social
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 15/09/2025
After serving nearly 20 years in the Army, Jack Jackson struggled to find new motivation. Our Navigator support helped him to start volunteering at a boxing gym near home. Now Jack's giving back to the club through a tough 50lb walking challenge over 50 miles. www.poppyfactory.org/jack-jackson/
poppyfactory.org
Jack’s tough hiking challenge to give back to boxing gym
After serving nearly 20 years in the Army, Jack struggled to find new motivation. Our Navigator service helped him to volunteer as a boxing coach.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 03/09/2025
Have you ever wondered what The Poppy Factory does? Now is your chance to find out - for free! Come & discover our 100+ year history. As part of the #OpenHouseFestival2025 we're opening our doors on Tues 16 Sept from 10am to 4pm. No need to pre-book. Pop-in, we'd love to welcome you.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 26/08/2025
A bowls competition in memory of young soldier Craig Roberts, who died in 2013, raised £1,500 to help others in the Armed Forces community. Thank you very much to organiser Daniel Jones and Craig's parents, Margaret and Kelvin, for supporting our work. www.poppyfactory.org/craig-roberts-memorial
poppyfactory.org
Sporting tribute to soldier Craig raises £1,500 for veterans and families - The Poppy Factory
A bowls competition in memory of a young soldier who died during special forces training raised £1,500 to support veterans and families.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 22/08/2025
The programme for this year's Open House Festival is now live and we're proud to list The Poppy Factory for the first time. Join us for our open afternoon on Tuesday 16 September as we prepare to celebrate our centenary in Richmond. programme.openhouse.org.uk/listings/5278
programme.openhouse.org.uk
The Poppy Factory
The Poppy Factory will mark 100 years in Richmond upon Thames in 2026. Its iconic Art Deco building opened in 1933 and a unique, supportive community was established on the surrounding estate. Today, ...
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 31/07/2025
A new @yougov.co.uk survey on perceptions of veteran support in the UK, commissioned by the Office for Veterans' Affairs, suggests that many in the Armed Forces community still have difficulty accessing services. www.poppyfactory.org/yougov-suppo...
poppyfactory.org
Survey reveals need for greater veteran awareness
New YouGov research highlights issues with perceptions of support.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 17/07/2025
Did you know jigsaws used to be made at The Poppy Factory, too? One of our jigsaw-makers, George Penfare, worked with our team in Richmond from 1939-50. We were delighted to welcome his granddaughter Janet to our visitor centre this week. Visit us this summer: www.poppyfactory.org/visit
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 04/07/2025
Stronger connections can build stronger mental wellbeing in the Armed Forces community, in all sorts of ways. We're delighted that our new partnership with PTSD Resolution will lead to more choice and life-changing support reaching more veterans and families. www.poppyfactory.org/ptsd-resolution
poppyfactory.org
Joining forces to improve mental wellbeing support
A new partnership between The Poppy Factory and PTSD Resolution aims to build mental wellbeing support for the Armed Forces community.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 27/06/2025
Our Veteran & Family Services team have been out again today, strengthening connections with partners ahead of #ArmedForcesDay. Team members joined the flag-raising at Westminster City Hall and met officers from Hampshire Constabulary at an event supporting the region's Armed Forces community.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 24/06/2025
☀️Relax into the school summer holidays with a fun family activity afternoon☀️ 🪙Follow our treasure hunt 🌹Make a poppy 🎨Get creative 📺See special video presentations 🍰Enjoy refreshments and delicious cakes ➡️Tuesday 22 July ➡️Monday 4 August ➡️Wednesday 20 August poppyfactory.org/discoverydays/
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Reposted by The Poppy Factory
Fighting With Pride @fightingwithpride.bsky.social · 11/06/2025
FWP, funded by @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social, have a vacancy for a London region Veteran Community Worker Please share this role through your networks www.fightingwithpride.org.uk/fwp-recruitm... Other vacancies, visit our Jobs Board www.fightingwithpride.org.uk/fwp-recruitm... #LGBT #Veterans
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 10/06/2025
We're proud to fly the rainbow flag from The Poppy Factory again for #pridemonth. More important is our year-round commitment to support LGBT+ members of the Armed Forces community, through our Veteran & Family Services and our #thrivetogetherlondon partnerships. More here: poppyfactory.org/support
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 06/06/2025
We want to say a big thank you to our volunteers who offer their time to support our visitor centre in Richmond. Last year we welcomed over 3,500 visitors through our doors and this year we're on track to welcome even more. #VolunteersWeek
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 03/06/2025
Volunteering has been a lifeline for many family members we support through our Families Employment Service. It's flexible and there's no pressure so childcare and general life responsibilities remain manageable. #VolunteersWeek www.poppyfactory.org/families/
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 29/05/2025
Ben, our Navigator in #Cheshire and #Merseyside, highlights the difference our Navigator service is making for veterans’ confidence and self-esteem, from returning to the gym after years away, to attending busy meeting places and choosing to show pride in appearance. www.poppyfactory.org/navigator/
poppyfactory.org
The Poppy Factory - Navigator Service
Helping veterans to build confidence, improve their health and wellbeing and connect with others. Available in Cheshire & Merseyside and in South Wales.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 19/05/2025
The Poppy Factory's terrace is coming into flower as we head towards summer, and we'd love to welcome you to our visitor centre while Richmond-upon-Thames is in full bloom! www.poppyfactory.org/discoverydays/
poppyfactory.org
Discover The Poppy Factory
Visit the home of Remembrance in Richmond-upon-Thames. Book now to join a discovery session at The Poppy Factory in 2025.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 01/05/2025
Just 5 tickets left to our special #VEDay80 visit next Weds, 7 May, at 12:30pm. Members of the public can chat to our expert hosts and volunteers, watch special VE Day presentations and view lesser-seen parts of our historic factory. www.poppyfactory.org/event/visit-...
poppyfactory.org
Special VE Day 80 discovery visit at 12:30pm on 7 May 2025 - The Poppy Factory
Join us on Wednesday 7  May for a hosted special VE Day 80 discovery afternoon from 12:30pm to 2pm, when we’re open to individuals and small groups. Tickets cost £15 each – please follow the link belo...
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 25/04/2025
Today we remember all Australians & New Zealanders who have served & died in wars, conflicts, & peace keeping operations. ANZAC biscuits were sent by families to soldiers & are a traditional way to mark #AnzacDay. We're proud to have some in the office, baked to the traditional New Zealand recipe.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 22/04/2025
Harry joined the Army in 2008 when he was 18, serving in Canada & Afghanistan. After returning from Afghanistan, Harry lost a limb after training exercise which resulted in medical discharge. Harry was helped by Blesma which put him in touch with us for emp support. www.poppyfactory.org/harry/
poppyfactory.org
Harry finds a renewed sense of purpose
Harry joined the Army in 2008 when he was 18 years old, serving in Canada and Afghanistan. After returning from Afghanistan, Harry lost a limb during a training exercise which resulted in medical disc...
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 28/03/2025
How are you celebrating #VEDay80? Join us in Richmond upon Thames, where you can take part in a special programme coinciding with national events to remember the end of WW2. Special discovery sessions on Tues 6 May & Weds 7 May at 12:30pm www.poppyfactory.org/discoverydays/
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 25/03/2025
Together we can make a difference! Our team members Leanne & Katy are at the Amex Stadium near Brighton today for an event run by Armed Forces Network: Sussex and Kent & Medway. They're speaking to veterans & partners to help break down barriers. poppyfactory.org/support
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 17/03/2025
Our #VEDay80 open afternoon is now sold out but you can still celebrate with us! Join us on our special #VEDay80 discovery visit on Tuesday 6 May at 12:30pm. www.poppyfactory.org/event/visit-...
poppyfactory.org
Special VE Day discovery visit at 12:30pm on 6 May 2025 - The Poppy Factory
Join us on Tuesday 6 May for a hosted special VE Day discovery afternoon from 12:30pm to 2pm, when we’re open to individuals and small groups. Tickets cost £15 each – please follow the link below to b...
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 13/03/2025
Join us at The Poppy Factory on Thursday 8 May for a special celebration to mark #VEDay80. Our open afternoon will coincide with national events to remember the end #WW2 in Europe. Timed free tickets for the open afternoon are available - book now! www.poppyfactory.org/event/veday80/
poppyfactory.org
VE Day 80 open afternoon - The Poppy Factory
Join us at The Poppy Factory on Thursday 8 May for a special celebration to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.   Our open afternoon will coincide with national events to remember the end of the Seco...
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 07/03/2025
After her husband developed a debilitating illness, mum Anna needed to go back to work to support their family life. @theripplepond.bsky.social gave her the support network she had been missing, and we helped to further boost her confidence and find the flexibility and job satisfaction she needed.
poppyfactory.org
Helping Anna fight for her family’s future
When her husband became ill, mum Anna had to work. The Ripple Pond gave her a support network while The Poppy Factory helped her find flexibility.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 06/03/2025
Ahead of #InternationalWomensDay, we want to share Michelle's story After leaving Service, former #Army medic Michelle experienced personal grief & struggled with her #mentalhealth. With the support from us & @armybenevolentfund.bsky.social she's now a Paramedic www.poppyfactory.org/michelle-par...
poppyfactory.org
Michelle makes progress towards becoming a paramedic
Former Army medic Michelle faced mental health struggles. Support from The Poppy Factory & Army Benevolent Fund is now helping her to become a paramedic.
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 24/02/2025
Emma & Hannah from our Veteran & Family Services team are at #Silverstone today for the Mission Motorsport National Transition Event, talking about how our #employment #support can change the lives of #veterans & their family members. poppyfactory.org/supportservices
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The Poppy Factory @thepoppyfactory.bsky.social · 20/02/2025
Ben & Andrew from our Veteran & Family Services team went to the #ArmedForces & #Veterans Breakfast Club held by Cheshire Constabulary on Tues. Special thanks to Mark Roberts, Chief Constable, & Lady Redmond MBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire, for their time understanding our employment support
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