11 November 2026
The Armistice Day event took place this morning at the Sunderland Veterans’ Garden
Students, staff and guests have gathered at the University of Sunderland in remembrance of those who have served and sacrificed.
The Armistice Day event took place this morning (Wednesday 11 November) at the Sunderland Veterans’ Garden on the University’s City Campus where a two-minute silence and a wreath laying was held.
Among those attending were University Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Sir David Bell, University Chaplain Chris Howson, student veterans and members of the North East Ambulance Service and the Armed Forces Community.
Following the service, refreshments were available at Hope Street Xchange, where attendees also had the opportunity to hear from a caseworker from Op NOVA.
Op NOVA is a specialist support service delivered by the Forces Employment Charity. Commissioned by NHS England, it provides practical and emotional support to veterans who are in contact with, or at risk of entering, the criminal justice system.
The service helps veterans access support for challenges including housing, employment, debt, mental health, and substance misuse, with the aim of helping them achieve long-term stability and reducing reoffending.
The University of Sunderland offers a range of support for students who are veterans or who are serving in the Armed Forces. Find out more here.