Vic Wales is a proud veteran who served in the British Army from 1995 to 2010, dedicating 15 years to military service before being medically discharged due to injury. Serving under the Gay Ban, she experienced the challenges and fear of that era, witnessing outstanding soldiers being discharged and hounded out simply for being gay. These experiences provided firsthand understanding of both the discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ service members and the profound challenges that injury or illness brings to the transition from military to civilian life. Since leaving the forces, these lived experiences have been channelled into transformational leadership in veteran support and LGBTQ+ advocacy, creating real change for those who served. As an Invictus Games UK Team member and competitor, embodying the resilience that defines the veteran community.
As Regional Operations Manager for Northeast & Yorkshire at Walking With The Wounded, Victoria leads teams delivering Mental Health support through WWTW’s NHS partnership Op Courage, Employment Support, and Care Coordination. She also leads the National Employment Programme, ensuring veterans across the country receive gold standard employability support needed to build meaningful civilian careers.
Recognising the unique challenges faced by female veterans, she launched Op Sisterhood, a groundbreaking female-only pathway into Walking With The Wounded services that addresses the distinct barriers women face during and after military service.
With multiple leadership positions held on LGBTQ+ boards nationally and globally, and as a Stonewall Workplace Assessor, Victoria champions inclusive environments where everyone can serve and work authentically.
As a Fighting With Pride Ambassador, she is here to fly the flag for the Northeast & Yorkshire region, ensuring LGBTQ+ veterans and service personnel know they have a champion in their corner.
When not championing veterans and the LGBTQ+ community, Victoria is a proud dog mam to Reggie, a mini-Yorkshire terrier.
