Who We Are:
Founded in 2018, The Spearhead Foundation began with a straightforward idea: there simply weren’t any genuinely appealing or modern groups for men and women who had served in Iraq or Afghanistan. As we grew, we joined forces with other initiatives to build a place our community could call home, and our mission naturally evolved. From day one, we’ve remained dedicated to challenging the stigma surrounding mental wellness and trauma.
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In 2021, we broadened our support beyond those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, welcoming all veterans as well as members of specialist police and fire services. With the right tools, a proven approach, and strong public backing, we are now opening our doors even wider to anyone experiencing mental ill‑health, along with the broader community, through our projects and expeditions.
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Our work is particularly focused on supporting men and women aged 21 to 45 who feel overwhelmed by the pressures of modern life and unsure of where to turn. The Spearhead Foundation provides a safe, friendly environment where people can connect with others who understand their experiences, free from judgement, and rebuild the confidence needed to face whatever challenges they’re dealing with. Above all, we want everyone who walks through our doors to make friends, feel they belong, and know our support will always be there.
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Since our early days what we like to call our “calling” our work has earned government recognition as a growing and committed service. Regiments and various organisations have sought our advice and adopted elements of our approach to help reduce suicide among soldiers.
The Foundation was originally funded through a private contribution from our founder, Craig Monaghan, using his “Pax payout” after being wounded in Afghanistan. Today, we are supported by public donations and have been fortunate to receive backing from organisations such as The Armed Forces Covenant (in partnership with The Veterans Garage), The Holroyd Foundation, the Sustaining Afghan Lives fund announced in 2021, as well as corporate sponsors and funding from Manchester City Council, One Manchester, and the Mike Gooley Trailfinders Foundation, among others.
In 2025, the original founders entrusted the running of the organisation to the Spearhead Community Trustees, and we are now in the process of registering as a charity following several successful years as a CIC. The founders Craig Monaghan and Jason New as of December 2025 are just members of The Spearhead Foundation and no longer participate in the running or day to day funding of the organisation.
We are always open to new partnerships with those who want to support the community and align themselves with our mission. If you’re interested in working with us, please get in touch we’d be delighted to discuss it.