Lord Mayor’s Reception at Fisher House Unites Business and Community Ahead of Invictus Games Birmingham 2027

Fisher House opened its doors last week to welcome the Lord Mayor of Birmingham and the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 team for an insightful evening dedicated to connecting local businesses in the West Midlands with the heart and purpose of the Invictus movement. 

Set just a stone’s throw from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Fisher House acts as a home away from home, and a vital refuge for military families who’s loved ones are being treated. Its deep connection to the armed forces community made it a fitting venue to reflect on the values of the Invictus Games movement. The event brought together key members of the Games, business representatives, and members of the veteran community to highlight the importance of family, and long-term support for those within the WIS community. 

The reception featured speeches from the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Laura Power (Deputy Head of Fundraising at Fisher House), Chair of IG27 Vicky Gosling OBE, CEO of IG27 Helen Helliwell, and two extraordinary Invictus alumni from the WIS community: former Royal Marine Ben Lukowski, and former 1st Battalion Scots Guard and triple amputee Dave Watson. 

Both Ben and Dave shared deeply moving accounts of their journeys. They spoke not only of the battles they faced in recovery, but of the strength they drew from their loved ones, who were able to stay close by at Fisher House during the most critical moments of their healing. Their words brought to life the profound impact of having family nearby, and how it provided a quiet constant in the chaos of recovery. They went on to describe how the Invictus Games gave them purpose, and a renewed sense of belonging. Through the first-hand accounts from Ben and Dave, guests weren’t just hearing stories - they were witnessing the living, breathing heart of what both Fisher House and the Invictus Games stand for. 

“The Invictus Games is a recovery pathway, a source of pride, and a family,” said Vicky Gosling, who brings a longstanding connection to both the Games and Fisher House. “Having worked with Ken Fisher during Invictus Games Orlando 2016, I’ve seen first-hand how much this home means to families during the toughest of times. Tonight, we’re connecting those personal stories to the incredible opportunities that the 2027 Games will bring to Birmingham and the West Midlands.” 

Helen Helliwell reinforced the evening’s purpose: “It’s vital that local businesses understand not just what’s coming in 2027, but why it matters. These Games are built on the stories of people like Ben and Dave, and the families who stood by them. That support network is invaluable. So too is the support network of businesses in the West Midlands who can come together to deliver an amazing week of Games and legacy.” 

Following the speeches, guests were invited on a guided tour of Fisher House, exploring its 18-bedroom accommodation, warm communal living areas, kitchen, garden, and cinema room — all designed to provide comfort and stability during times of great uncertainty. 

The event concluded with a dedicated networking session, giving Birmingham and West Midlands business leaders a chance to connect directly with IG27 organisers and explore how they can contribute to and benefit from the Games, whether through partnership, legacy initiatives, or community engagement. 

As momentum builds toward the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 at the NEC, this evening served as a powerful reminder that behind every competitor is a network of family and community; and that the city has a unique opportunity to be part of that journey.