Meet the Veterans: Veterans Welfare Group – Lived Experience

Why Veterans Helping Veterans Matters

At Veterans Welfare Group, we believe there’s no substitute for lived experience—because we’ve walked that road ourselves. Our team, led by fellow veterans Rich Williams, Dean Phillips, and Cassidy Little, knows firsthand the weight of leaving the armed forces: the loss of identity, the uncertainty, and the struggle to rebuild. We’ve faced those challenges head-on, and now we’re using everything we’ve learned to light the way for others.

From navigating medical care and employment to managing mental health and rediscovering purpose, our support is grounded in experience. We’re here, peer to peer, walking alongside every veteran who needs us—step by step—because no one should face transition, and challenges post service, alone. We turned our struggles into strength, and now we’re making sure others don’t have to learn the hard way.

Why Lived Experience Matters in Veteran Support

• Shared background – Builds instant trust between veteran and supporter.
• Understanding the transition – Enables realistic and relevant support strategies.
• Peer-to-peer credibility – Removes stigma around asking for help

Rich’s Story – Leading with Experience

A former Royal Navy medical officer with over 20 years of service, Richard brings unparalleled expertise in military healthcare and veteran support. His frontline experience—including deployments with 42 Commando Royal Marines, Op HERRICK 9, and HMS SCOTT—gives him deep insight into the medical and psychological challenges faced by service personnel during and after active duty. This lived experience underpins his strong commitment to creating structured rehabilitation pathways and long-term care for veterans.

Since transitioning to civilian medicine, Richard has become a leading figure in head and neck cancer surgery and has helped shape national healthcare policy through his roles in research, governance, and as co-chair of a specialist cancer group. As the Chief Medical Officer at Veterans Welfare Group, Rich focuses on structure, stability, and long-term outcomes. He plays a key role in improving healthcare access, rehabilitation services, and long-term support for veterans.

Dean’s Journey – Helping Others Through Action

For 22 years, Dean served as a dedicated Royal Air Force Medic, deploying on multiple operations across the Middle East and Southern Europe.  Throughout his career, he worked in seven Medical Centres, two Occupational Health Departments, and notably managed the Aeromedical Evacuation Control Centre for over three years. In this critical role, he ensured the safe and timely repatriation of injured personnel from a wide range of global locations back to the UK.

In 2024, Dean was medically discharged from the Royal Air Force, giving him first-hand experience of a process that often leaves many veterans feeling confused and anxious about their future careers and life in “civvy street.” Now, as a Welfare Lead at Veterans Welfare Group, he continues his commitment to service by guiding veterans and service leavers—particularly those facing medical discharge—through complex transitions. Drawing on his extensive military and medical background, Dean ensures that no one has to face these challenges alone.

Cassidy’s Mission – Building Connection and Resilience

Cassidy Little, a former Royal Marine and experienced advocate, recently joined Veterans Welfare Group as an Ambassador. His role builds on a personal journey of injury, rehabilitation, and public service, making him a valuable voice in championing support for injured veterans.

Originally from Canada, Cassidy moved to the UK before enlisting in the Royal Marines. After sustaining life-changing injuries in Afghanistan, including the loss of a leg and a brain injury, his focus shifted toward advocacy. His recovery journey included retraining as an actor, gaining national attention through public speaking, and winning BBC’s “The People’s Strictly”. Cassidy now uses his profile to raise awareness around rehabilitation and medical discharge challenges faced by veterans.

Cassidy plays a vital role at Veterans Welfare Group by using his personal journey of rehabilitation to inspire and support others navigating similar challenges. As an advocate for medically discharged veterans, he raises awareness of their unique needs and helps ensure their voices are heard. Cassidy also represents the Group at key events, offering encouragement and guidance to service leavers as they transition into civilian life.