Military and Police Support of West Tyrone — MAPS

Military and Police Support of West Tyrone — MAPS — is a well‑established ex‑services organisation based in Omagh that supports former members of the security forces who served during Operation Banner. The core takeaway: MAPS is a welfare, advocacy, and community‑support charity for retired military and police personnel in West Tyrone, offering practical assistance, social reintegration, and specialist wellbeing services.

MAPS is an award‑winning ex‑services charity, founded in 2011–2012, run by veterans for veterans. Its mission is to support former military and police personnel — and their partners — who experienced trauma, isolation, or long‑term impacts from service during the Troubles.

MAPS’ reputation for excellence has been recognised repeatedly, including being named NI Veterans Awards – Group of the Year 2024, reflecting its leadership, professionalism, and impact across the region. In 2025, MAPS volunteer Margo Hetherington received the NI Veterans Awards – Volunteer of the Year, highlighting the strength and dedication of the organisation’s volunteer base.

• Veteran welfare — addressing physical, social, emotional, and psychological needs arising from service.

• Advocacy — representing ex‑service personnel in West Tyrone and connecting them with statutory and charitable support.

• Community reintegration — helping individuals who felt alienated after discharge to reconnect with community life.

• Low‑level support — early‑stage, accessible interventions that prevent isolation and encourage engagement.

• Drop‑in centre — a safe, comfortable space for members to meet, talk, and access support.

• Befriending service — the backbone of MAPS; confidential one‑to‑one support for isolated or vulnerable veterans.

• Welfare & benefits advice — including pensions, housing, PIP assessments, and daily‑life challenges.

• Complementary therapies — stress reduction, wellbeing, and rehabilitation activities.

• Respite and social activities — coffee mornings, courses, information sessions.

• Veterans’ Garden Project — horticultural therapy at Baronscourt Estate, promoting exercise, socialisation, and mental wellbeing.

MAPS is recognised as the official representative body for military and police associations in West Tyrone, providing secure accommodation for partner organisations such as the Royal British Legion.

It has over 1,000 members and has received notable recognition:

• Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (2017)

• Finalist — Soldiering On Awards (2018 and 2020)

• NI Veterans Awards – Group of the Year (2024)

• NI Veterans Awards – Volunteer of the Year (2025) — Margo Hetherington MBE

These achievements reinforce MAPS’ position as one of Northern Ireland’s leading ex‑services organisations, driven by committed volunteers and a strong ethos of peer support, welfare advocacy, and community engagement.