About Project Independence Veterans

Our story

Project Independence Veterans was founded in mid-2023 by Harry Edie, driven by a commitment to improving the lives of veterans, communities and those living with disabilities predominantly across the North West of England & further afield.

The organisation's journey began with a simple act of goodwill — assisting veteran John "Jimmy" Foster, who required repairs to his walking frame. From that first encounter, the work quickly expanded, and Harry went on to repair a hand sewing machine for Jimmy and later, with the help of volunteer Martyn O'Brien who joined later that year, restored a heavily damaged electric wheelchair to full working order.

Following this foundation, the project grew under the support of Wigan Armed Forces HQ. Shortly after Armed Forces Day in April 2024, the team supplied Jimmy with a mobility scooter and began repairing scooters and other mobility aids for further veterans in need.

As the organisation's impact grew, Project Independence Veterans transitioned from operating under Wigan Armed Forces HQ into an independent volunteer group, with plans underway to establish full charitable status. During this period, Jimmy — who had suffered a stroke — was provided with an electric bed to support his care needs. Sadly, Jimmy passed away shortly after. He is remembered with great fondness and gratitude, and his story remains at the heart of everything we do.

What we do today

Project Independence Veterans continues to go from strength to strength, providing a wide range of mobility and disability aids to both veterans and civilians in need. Our services include:

• Mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs
• Manual wheelchairs and electric adjustable beds
• Stairlifts and other specialist aids
• Signposting to additional support services and partner organisations

We work in partnership with businesses and charitable organisations to source, repair, and redistribute equipment — maximising the reach and impact of every donation and referral we receive.

In addition to our work at home, we have contributed significant aid to charity supplies for Ukraine, donating a wide variety of products to support those in need overseas.

Our reach

Our work spans Wigan and the surrounding region, with support extending to areas including Manchester, Liverpool, Blackburn, Burnley, Clitheroe, Frodsham, Morecambe, and beyond.

We are proud to work alongside local founding partners who share our vision of improving the wellbeing of veterans and members of the wider community — connecting people with the right resources, at the right time.