ISSUE 11 | AUTUMN 2018 DESPATCHES

TOGETHER WE’RE MAKING A DIFFERENCE

FROM THE ARCHIVES CASE STUDY INTRODUCING Stories from WW1 Jamie Small Sir James Gildea Awards INSIDE THIS ISSUE 05 11 FOR THE FALLEN

Poem by Robert Laurence Binyon (1869-1943), published 13 in The Times newspaper on 21 September 1914.

With proud thanksgiving, a mother for her children, England mourns for her dead across the sea. Flesh of her flesh they were, spirit of her spirit, CONTENTS Fallen in the cause of the free.

5 Get back on your feet Solemn the drums thrill: Death august and royal 7 Norton House, Sings sorrow up into immortal spheres. Stanford Hall There is music in the midst of desolation 8-9 And a glory that shines upon our tears. 8-9 Research report They went with songs to the battle, they were young, 11 Shrouds of the Somme Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow. They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted, 13 Case study: Mandy and They fell with their faces to the foe. Jamie Small

15 Volunteer profile: They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Rob Eeles Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning 16 Volunteer Checkpoint We will remember them. 18 Mary Jamieson They mingle not with their laughing comrades again; 19 Focus on: FANDF They sit no more at familiar tables of home; 18 They have no lot in our labour of the day-time; 20 Dates for your diary They sleep beyond England’s foam. 24 SSAFA’s Sir James But where our desires are and our hopes profound, Gildea Awards Felt as a well-spring that is hidden from sight, 26 Rally for Heroes To the innermost heart of their own land they are known As the stars are known to the Night;

If you have any inputs for future As the stars that shall be bright when we are dust, Moving in marches upon the heavenly plain, editions of Despatches, please send As the stars that are starry in the time of our darkness, them to [email protected] To the end, to the end, they remain.

SSAFA Queen Elizabeth House, 4 St Dunstans Hill, London EC3R 8AD Phone: 020 7403 8783 | [email protected] | Facebook: SSAFA | Twitter: @SSAFA | Instagram: ssafaarmedforcescharity Registered as a charity in England and Wales Number 210760 in Scotland Number SCO38056 and in Republic of Ireland Number 20006082. Established 1885. S319.0818 02 03 DID YOU KNOW…

Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Families Association (SSFA) was one of the first organisations to call for benefits that would be distributed universally, regardless of circumstance. The introduction of the Separation Allowance, distributed by SSFA during the First World War, was the first government payment made to families as a matter of course.

Miss Eleanor F Rathbone (1872-1946), was the Honorary Secretary for the Liverpool Division of SSFA during the First World War. A prominent suffragette and campaigner for women’s rights and an independent MP from 1929-1946, she HELPING is recognised (with an English Heritage blue plaque) as a pioneer of Family Allowances. During the war, clothing branches collected or made VETERANS clothes for the poorest families. Some of these clothes were used for military families who were returning to the UK from the outposts of the British Empire. Many of these families returning from more tropical countries did not have GET BACK appropriate clothing for the much colder British climate.

For those on the Home Front in 1914, the austerity continued, but SSFA was there to provide some relief. A ship ON THEIR was sent from America, itself not involved in the conflict at the time, packed with toys for the children of the British troops, and SSFA distributed thousands of gifts to children FEET across the UK in time for Christmas.

SSFA provided Alexandra Nurses to garrison towns and ports across the nation and overseas. The nurses provided healthcare to families while the men were away serving their country. When the First World War broke out, many of the nurses joined Voluntary Aid Detachments. Many went abroad with their detachments and served near the front hen celebrity ambassador and Special lines. Others worked in hospitals and convalescent homes in Forces veteran Ant Middleton proposed From top: Eleanor Rathbone, Alexandra the UK. developing a fundraising campaign for nurse dressing a soldiers wound and the W USS Jason ‘The Christmas ship’. SSAFA, we jumped at the chance – and then we made Visit: ssafa.org.uk/ww1 for more First World War stories. him jump too! Ant, star of Channel 4’s SAS Who Dares Wins, #GETBACKONYOURFEET worked with us to launch the Ant Middleton Fund to Our campaign launched in July with Ant setting a help veterans get back on their feet as they return to challenge to ‘Get Back On Your Feet’. Hundreds of Thenew album civilian life. people posted videos on social media and challenged When he struggled to cope after leaving the their friends to give it a go, too. This created a great REMEMBER’ military and experienced firsthand the challenges buzz about SSAFA and raised awareness with a new service men and women face when they return to audience as well as generating donations. 1918-2018 civvy street, Ant turned to SSAFA for support. Search #GetBackOnYourFeet on Twitter or Instagram The funds raised through the Ant Middleton Fund will to take a look at some of the videos. Telling the story of women ensure that those veterans seeking help when they are then and now having difficulties with the transition to civilian life get Visit: ssafa.org.uk/AMF for more details about the the support that they need. Ant Middleton Fund.

04 05 SPOTLIGHT ON… STORIES FROM THE FIRST WORLD WAR BEDROOM 2 BEDROOM 3 BEDROOM 4 BEDROOM 5 Paul Whittle, volunteer for SSAFA Dorset, NORTON HOUSE, shares the story of his grandfather. STANFORD HALL FREDERICK JOHN MEACHIN After her husband Captain Peter Norton was injured while serving in Iraq, Sue Norton led a campaign to UP raise money for a place forLANDING relatives to stay while their injured loved one was treated nearby. Realising the Edith Cavell paid the ultimate price for helping Despite everything he went through to escape, logistical strain that supporting an injured relative Allied soldiers to escape occupied Belgium Meachin volunteered to go back to active service. through the rehabilitation process can bring, in 2008 during the First World War. Her execution by a Frederick went on to receive a Distinguished SSAFA opened Norton House, Headley Court in BEDROOM 6 German firing squad in 1915 caused Conduct Medal for his actions at Oppy Wood on Surrey. This was our first comfortable home-away- international condemnation. For Frederick June 28, 1917. He retiredDDA from the Army in 1929Storage and cupd from-home focusing on emotional welfare. Meachin - the en suite died in July 1954 Following the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre first of some 200 at the age of 65. (DMRC) move from Surrey to the East Midlands in soldiers to get Grandson Paul September,DOWN we wanted to continue to provide free, safe out of Belgium had little and supportive accommodation for families. SSAFA’s DOWN with Cavell’s opportunity to new Norton House, Stanford Hall will also be a haven for assistance - it get to know his those being treated, to allow them a break from a grandfather in hospital environment. was 20 years WARDROBE before he felt life but has been able to talk touched to about his daring discover the WE BELIEVE THAT NORTON HOUSE, EAVES escape. EAVES STORAGE regard with EAVES STORAGE STANFORD HALL IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE: STORAGE CSM Meachin, which Meachin is • Families will be supported throughout the who made his still held by his rehabilitation of their loved one. escape attempt regiment. “I went with Lt Col to the regimental • Shared experiences will make sure families do not Dudley Boger museum up in feel isolated. DSO, didn’t talk Chester to find • Those being treated will have peace of mind about it at all out more about knowing their family is in a safe and supportive until after the death of the Colonel. But in 1939 he him. Someone asked me who I was looking for. It environment. told journalists: “Nurse Cavell was one of those turned out he was the archivist and he stood there people you can never forget. I recall her as a small, and told me all about my grandfather without even • Families will be spared the additional stress and slightly-built woman of middleSCALE age. - meters Her face was looking it up! Surprisingly, the first thing he told me Firstworry Floor of finding andPlan paying for- accommodation.PROPOSED full of determination and there was a light in her was that he had been good at hockey, which is 0 1 2 3M 6M • Service personnel receiving treatment have a eyes that gave you the impression that she loved something I also played well.” chance to stay and enjoy the comforts of home. life. She was typical of the best type of hospital Read the full story at: matron, the kind that gets things done without you The home has eight bedrooms, accessible ssafa.org.uk/frederick-john-meachin. noticing that they are being done.” bathrooms, an internal lift, a large modern kitchen, spacious and comfortable lounge area, outdoor space with peaceful garden and a comfortable home-from-home environment. We estimate that Norton House, Stanford Hall will be needed by more than 1,000 people every year.

06 07 Our research included a survey of more NEW VETERANS STRATEGY than 1,000 veterans helped by SSAFA. We’re delighted to be involved in the creation of a new Veterans n June we launched our latest The report revealed that we are Strategy. As part of the research report which challenged dealing with a younger generation Government’s commitment to Ithe way in which Armed Forces of veterans who feel increasingly strengthen the delivery of the personnel are treated by society alienated by society. We believe Armed Forces Covenant, the once they leave the military. the disturbing disconnect between Prime Minister has initiated work Our research included a survey younger veterans and the rest of to develop and publish a Veterans of more than 1,000 veterans helped the nation cannot be simply left Strategy by November 2018. by SSAFA and other members of to the Government or the military Along with representatives the veteran community as well as to resolve and must be addressed from other military charities our members of the public. The survey by society as a whole. Controller, Andrew Gregory, is of SSAFA veterans found: part of the Steering Group set up THE REPORT SETS OUT to drive progress. It will address SIX RECOMMENDATIONS: the following five key areas: 1. Set up a nationwide • Debt support service available • Housing to all service leavers • Social isolation 81% 2. Launch a new national felt that US veterans were veterans ID card • Mental and physical wellbeing more respected than veterans in the UK 3. Introduce compulsory • Public perception life skills training for all serving personnel 4. Promote a savings culture in the Armed Forces “But when they 5. Extend the transition process both died, loneliness 75% 6. Educate employers about really hit. You realise felt that they were not as military qualifications respected by society as the that when you were UK emergency services As a result of the report, we saw in the Army you more than 80 pieces of coverage were never alone.” across national broadcast, regional radio and national newspapers with GEMIMA STEVENSON THE veteran, aged 32 a reach of more than 29 million people. This included Sky News NATION’S 67% Sunrise, ITV News, Channel 5 News, felt there was less respect telegraph.co.uk, thesun.co.uk and for veterans when the Armed TalkRadio. Forces were not in conflict In June, SSAFA saw the biggest DUTY: rise in mainstream media ranking of all the charities in the UK. We also Challenging society’s disservice saw an increase in calls to Forcesline from people coming forward for help in the weeks following publication of to a new generation of veterans the report. 62% You can read the full report via: felt undervalued by society. ssafa.org.uk/duty. 08 09 THEN 2014 NOW 2018 BLOOD SWEPT LANDS SHROUDS OF AND SEAS OF RED THE SOMME In 2014 we were a beneficiary from the Poppies In 2018 we will be part of a poignant at the Tower display which commemorated the display of the striking Shrouds of the Somme outbreak of the First World War. at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Artist Paul Cummins designed a unique Shrouds of the Somme is an extraordinary Somme. Each figure represents a named soldier art installation, Blood Swept Lands and Seas of arts remembrance installation. It comprises and each figure is unique. Red. 888,246 handmade ceramic poppies were 72,396 hand-stitched shrouded figures laid The scale of Rob’s task is enormous, ‘planted’ in the Tower of London moat over the out in perfect rows. Each figure represents a but then so is the scale of the loss of life 100 summer and autumn, one for each British and soldier who died at the years ago. This artwork is stunning because it Colonial fatality during the war. The result was an but whose body was never recovered represents grief in such a graphic manner and amazing thought provoking display that from the battlefield. gives those lost lives a name and a place captured the imagination. In all, an estimated five To mark the centenary of Armistice Day in our memories forever. million people saw the memorial in person. in 2018, artist Rob Heard is hand stitching the You can visit the display at Queen Elizabeth figures to be laid out in perfect rows that Olympic Park between 8-18 November 2018. represent the British and South African soldiers For more information: FRANK ROSS with no known grave killed at the Battle of the shroudsofthesomme.com.

Many of the poppies were sold to raise funds for military charities: Cobseo, Combat Stress, Coming Home, , the and SSAFA. Two sections, ‘the weeping window’ and ‘the wave’, went on tour to, amongst other places, Herefordshire Cathedral, where the local branch helped organise the event and acted as guides for visitors. SSAFA’s Herefordshire Branch Chairman Tim Howson, said: “The Poppies: Weeping Window display was a fantastic success, exceeding all expectations. It was also a wonderful chance to Each figure represents a named soldier showcase SSAFA and other military charities, Lila & Angelys latest range of WW1 with volunteers from a number of them helping themed brooches in support of SSAFA with many aspects of the event. The SSAFA generate a donation of 10% of the RRP. logo and WW1 strapline There Then, Here Now To see the full range visit: was also on show prominently in the Cathedral lilajewellery.co.uk/product-category/angelys/ssafa as we reminded the large number of visitors of our work during the Great War.”

10 11 CASE STUDY - MENTORING SGT MICHELLE TURNER Michelle Turner was devastated that her 20-year career in the RAF was cut short when she was diagnosed with a heart condition.

Michelle joined the RAF in 1997 and completed tours of Oman, the Falklands, Kuwait and Bahrain. She said: “It was my dream job. When I joined up, my mum said you won’t last 20 minutes, but I lasted 20 years! I deployed to Bahrain in 2013 and that’s where I first got poorly. A lot of us were ill with a nasty virus and I couldn’t shake it off. I thought I would be alright once I got home and rested, but it got worse and I started collapsing and CASE STUDY - CASEWORK blacking out.” Michelle underwent numerous tests and was finally diagnosed with the heart condition, postural tachycardia, which manifested as a result of the virus and has no cure. She was initially supported by SSAFA’s RAF Personal MANDY AND Support & Social Work Service. “I was at my wits’ end, but I desperately wanted to keep my job. Initially they put me on half days, but I was still exhausted and that’s when I went to see SSAFA. Ali JAMIE SMALL was amazing. She got me a panic alarm in place, which was a huge relief and she was also just someone I could Mandy Small’s husband Chris who was able to provide vital Jamie has since been named talk to. And she didn’t mind if I cried.” took his own life in November practical assistance and emotional Inspirational Young Person of the Michelle became increasingly isolated due to her fear of 2016, leaving Mandy to break the support ranging from sourcing Year at Suffolk’s Raising the Bar collapsing in public places. She said: “I’m the most positive devastating news to their young funding to cover funeral costs to Awards 2018. The award recognises person in the world but I just couldn’t see an end to it. I son Jamie. arranging bereavement counselling those 12 years and under “whose didn’t even want to take my daughter Maya to birthday Chris had served 21 years as for Jamie. attitudes and positive approach to parties. Then I got an email out of the blue from the a chef in the Royal Logistics Corp, Mandy said “I worked quite life has a direct impact on the social, Invictus Games. My husband said you’ve got to do it. “I’m the most positive person in the world, including gruelling tours of Iraq, closely with SSAFA volunteers when moral, cultural and spiritual aspects “I went to the first camp and just being back with military but I just couldn’t see an end to it.” Bosnia, Kosovo, Northern Ireland I was in the RAF. It’s always been a of the life of others”. people I realised that was what I needed. Everyone had their and two of Afghanistan, but after charity I have supported. You just own issues, so no one was bothered by mine. I have learned over the last four years as a positive and he took voluntary redundancy never think it will be you that “When I first went in the pool, I was terrified turn things around.” in 2014, he found it difficult to needs help.” something would happen, but they just said if you Michelle now has a SSAFA mentor to support her adjust to civilian life and the Inspired to give back, ten-year- collapse we’ll get you out. I came last, but everybody through her transition to civilian life. She said: “Marianne couple separated. old Jamie organised a SSAFA Fun was cheering for me and it didn’t matter. is fabulous. She comes to see me and talks things through “He had changed a lot during Day at his Wickham Market Primary “I’ve realised that what you have may not be what with me. Sometimes it takes another person to help you his last two years of service. We School. The event raised almost you wanted, but it’s what you’ve got. I hope to use what see things clearly. She will suggest things I might not initially separated because I found £6,000. Mandy said: “Suffolk really have thought of. It’s amazing to have someone who will out he had been unfaithful, and he pulled together. It was far bigger Real-life stories like these help us demonstrate take some time out of their day to come and have a chat was drinking too much. He hadn’t then we could have even dreamt, the huge positive impact we have on people’s with you and offer their support. And if I need any help been officially diagnosed with PTSD, and people were so generous. The lives. Do you know someone we have helped from SSAFA, she can support me with that. Marianne is my but he was obviously struggling.” fact that we have been able to turn who would be willing to share their story? go-to person. It’s important that people know this kind Mandy, who served 12 years in the worst experience of our lives If so, please contact CALL FOR FOR CALL of help is out there. It’s so worth it to know you have got the RAF Police, has been supported into a way of helping others makes [email protected]. CASE STUDIES: STUDIES: CASE someone in your corner.” throughout by a SSAFA caseworker, us extremely proud.” 12 13 STORIES FROM THE FIRST WORLD WAR VOLUNTEER PROFILE SSAFA mentor Robert Eeles shares his grandfather’s story. ROB EELES

Date joined SSAFA: October 2016 KENNETH MACLEAN Volunteer role: Mentor SSAFA volunteer mentor Rob Eeles served six “Kenneth MacLean left his hometown of Christmas, Kenneth now found himself in France years with 1st Battalion Scots Guards, a Evanton, Ross-Shire, Scotland in search of on 23 December 1915 as part of the 2nd Canadian background that has stood him in good stead as a adventure overseas at the young age of 16. His Mounted Rifles. In June 1916 Kenneth was shot and mentor for service personnel making the transition search took him to Alberta, wounded at the Battle of Ypres. to civilian life today. Canada, and his love of horses As much as Kenneth wanted to Rob, now an Operations Manager for a financial “As an ex-serviceman, I think it’s healthy to and the outdoors saw him return to Canada and resettle there services business, served in the first Gulf War and be able to separate the good from the bad and working as a rancher. after the war, he couldn’t afford the completed two tours of Northern Ireland when he develop the positive aspects of service life, At the outbreak of the First return journey. I’m kind of happy was in the Army. He was introduced to SSAFA by such as core values and standards, while World War Kenneth was in his late about this because Kenneth married another former Scots Guard in 2016. Rob has been stepping away from the less desirable aspects. 20s but still had the urge to fight my grandmother, Helen MacLean working with his current mentee, a former RAF You give such a lot to Queen and country when for King and (new) country. (née MacAngus) from Evanton, officer who was recently medically discharged, for you are young, but then when you are out, Kenneth enlisted at Pincher Ross-Shire, Scotland. They six months. you’re out and it’s difficult. To be able to make Creek, Alberta on 18 March 1915. subsequently had four daughters, Rob said: “We meet every Sunday at a coffee that transition a bit easier for any of the lads He joined the Royal Canadian one of which is my mother Tina shop. I think what has greatly benefited us is having who are going through it now is something I Mounted Rifles as part of the Eeles (née MacLean). Tina went on to the shared ex-service background. When I left the want to do.” Canadian Overseas Expeditionary serve her Queen and country as an Army, it took me a long time to find my feet and find Force. On 10 September 1915 he RAF policewoman and met my a job that I could stick at for any length of time. I found himself back in the UK at father, Brian Eeles from Catherham, bounced around all the different stereotypical Shorncliffe, as part of the Surrey, who was also serving in the security jobs. I had to retrain to get to the place Canadian Cavalry Depot, CEF. RAF at the time. I am privileged to be where I am today.” Kenneth subsequently landed himself in a spot of sharing part of my family history with you and my Rob has been able to help his mentee with career bother in November 1915, with the unit docking service both to Queen and country as a veteran of and relationship issues, whilst his knowledge of him two weeks’ pay for sleeping on duty! Having the 1st Battalion Scots Guards and an active service life has proved to be invaluable. His mentee Forces Cars Direct, recovered from his short nap and just in time for volunteer mentor for SSAFA!” says: “Rob just ‘gets’ it and understands what’s putting you and your family first. Exclusive new car discounts for all serving Armed Forces and Ex-Military. important. As a veteran himself, he’s been in difficult situations in both his military and civilian careers, and so knows what he’s talking about. He BEAR also understands the issues veterans face in civvy STEIFF street. Quite often Rob will say something at one of As part of our First World War centenary activities, we have come our sessions and I will find it guides what I do during together with Steiff, the world’s oldest manufacturer of hand- the week, at home or at work, for the better. Rob crafted stuffed animals for collectors and machine washable plush helped me to take things one step at a time and toys for children, to honour this poignant moment in history. Steiff ultimately get to the much better place I’m in now.” has pledged to create only 1,918 Armistice Bears, making this A married father of two, Rob leads a busy life but said it’s important to him to make time for limited edition all the more sought after. Call us on: mentoring. “Both my grandfathers were in the military. My parents were in the RAF, and a lot of my 01522 814 010 The Armistice Bear is available to pre-order now via: Or visit: www.forcescarsdirect.com cousins serve, so the military will always be For every car sold and delivered we make a contribution in support of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity steiffteddybears.co.uk important to me,” he said. “I get a real sense of SSAFA will receive a £20 donation for every bear sold. satisfaction just helping someone who does not Images for illustration only. Prices and details correct at time of print. Up to 50% saving refers to tax free sales, tax paid UK based discounts available up to 30%. Discounts vary between makes and models, please have to make the same mistakes that I did. ask for detailed quote. Please ask about local participating dealer handover. Forces Cars Direct Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (672273). We act as a credit broker not a lender. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders who may be able to offer you nance facilities for your purchase. We will only introduce you to these lenders.

14 15 3. CASEWORKERS REFRESHER TRAINING In addition to the be booked via the Learning & VOLUNTEER elearning courses, as part of Development area on the Regulations under the SSAFAnet. Alternatively, Royal Charter of incorporation branches can arrange a course and rules, volunteer locally by contacting the caseworkers are required to Learning & Development team: CHECKPOINT undertake refresher training [email protected]. As you will have seen from recent headline grabbing incidents at other charities, protecting every three years. Caseworker our reputation is hugely important as the impact can be seriously damaging. refresher training courses can Changes to regulations mean that we have to make more demands on our volunteers. This is to make sure we are complying with the laws and rules that apply. There are a number of activities underway which you should be aware of: 4. DATA BREACH PROCESS A data breach is the be notified to the Information required. If you are in any doubt GENERAL DATA PROTECTION REGULATION (GDPR) TRAINING intentional or unintentional Commissioner’s Office (ICO), we about the procedure, please release of secure or private/ have 72 hours from the point contact the Data Governance 1. In May, GDPR came into Commissioner’s Office (ICO) will In order to ensure that we confidential information to an when SSAFA was first aware of Manager via: data.governance@ force. Every UK business and be able to levy substantial fines know and adhere to the changes untrusted environment. the problem to submit a detailed ssafa.org.uk. More information organisation needs to on organisations for data in regulation, we have It is important that all actual or report. Lower level breaches also and the full process can be found demonstrate that they have protection breaches. We at developed an elearning course suspected data breaches are need the information submitted on SSAFAnet. plans and processes in place to SSAFA are no different. Data for all reported as soon as they come to in the same timescale to confirm show that they are GDPR protection and security is the volunteers to light. Where the breach needs to that an ICO referral is not compliant. responsibility of every single complete. As part of the new regulation, person who works or volunteers the UK’s Information for SSAFA. 5. CRISIS MANAGEMENT SAFEGUARDING TRAINING SSAFA’s dedicated PR team is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Their role is to 2. Protecting our clients, the wellbeing and safety of safeguard SSAFA’s reputation. If you are aware of volunteers and employees is vital children and adults you come something that has the potential to affect to SSAFA. To reinforce this, we into contact with. The training SSAFA’s reputation, please call the team as soon have developed an elearning will empower you with the as possible. Call: 020 7463 9321 course to provide a basic level of knowledge to identify You should speak to the PR team if: understanding about safeguarding concerns and to • A journalist asks for comment or information, safeguarding for all. whom to report them to, to whether positive or negative. As a SSAFA volunteer, you prevent or protect an individual • A complaint or accusation has been made about have a responsibility to ensure from harm. SSAFA. • A mistake/accident/breach has happened at SSAFA. The elearning modules for GDPR and Safeguarding create your own password before moving onto the • A problem arises at a fundraising event. can be accessed via: ssafa.clcmoodle.org. courses. • An event occurs which impacts SSAFA or the When logging in, your username is your email For those without computer access, we have created service we provide. address. For those with a SSAFA address, it is paper-based learning packs that can be completed. • Something has an adverse effect on a client. [email protected] Please contact your branch secretary or service • Social media activity seems negative. (please do not enter 365 into the address). If you have committee secretary/coordinator to request a copy. • A client is unhappy and is threatening to go to used the site before, you will have already set your own Please complete the GDPR and Safeguarding training the media. password. If you have not accessed the site before, as soon as possible, but with an absolute deadline of 31 then the password is Changeme1! You will have to December 2018.

16 17 STORIES FROM THE FIRST WORLD WAR

SSAFA supporter Alison Botterill told us about her grandmother Mary Jamieson (1892-1949). MARY JAMIESON

“I have been told it [the photo] would have been of the St Pancras Workhouse. It was quite a moving taken around October 1918. She had left her experience to see her name, and that of my uncle Scottish village home as a very young woman and aunt, in the workhouse registers. I like to think and travelled to London where she became she had simply taken a practical approach to her involved in the Women’s Suffrage Movement, situation as a single mother and booked herself in regularly addressing the crowds at Speakers’ for the birth, leaving again some weeks afterwards Corner in Hyde Park. when she was ready to go back to work. I have a My mother always said that she was among the photo of the children’s father and must assume he FOCUS ON… first 100 women, was away in the early part fighting when of 1917, to join their births were the newly- registered, FANDF formed Women’s unable to give Army Auxiliary written consent What is FANDF? for the better as well as put people in touch with each Corps and was for his name to be The Forces Additional Needs & Disability Forum other or signpost them to people and information which stationed, as a put on the birth (FANDF) is a support group for those in the military may help them”. forewoman, register. who have a family member with an additional need or Who can apply? with the 2nd He sadly died in disability. Membership is free and open to: Artists’ Rifles, at 1918. She kept her What does the forum do? • Parents of children with additional needs and Romford OTC, daughter but had The FANDF provides families and individuals with an disabilities from Service families. Hare Hill in Essex to give her son up opportunity to discuss ways of ensuring that both • Partners/spouses of Service personnel with a (shown in the to friends to care children and adults with additional needs and disability. photo), where for, having no disabilities have access to the best support available. • Service personnel with a disability. both Wilfred family nearby. The FANDF Committee, which meets four times a • Carers. Owen and Only a year or so year, explore the issues surrounding the support Edward Thomas later, she married Who to contact provided for those with additional needs in the Service underwent their a fellow Scot, If you would like to find out more, please contact the community and will raise any issues with the training. She almost 20 years Additional Needs and Disability Advisor, Frances appropriate people and organisations. also spent some her senior, and Robinson, via: [email protected]. FANDF Chair Iza Gill explains why FANDF is so time in France, went on to have a important to families like hers: “The special near Lille. further six children of whom five survived. circumstances which Forces families endure - the The FANDF conference held earlier this year had a From her humble village background, she seems She died aged 58, having suffered years of constant upheaval of postings and uncertainty about theme of ‘myth busting’. The day included talks to have moved into quite elevated and intellectual debilitating illness, four years before I was born. the future as well as being away from the support of from Children’s Education Advisory Service, London circles, but in January 1916 she gave birth I have always regretted the fact that I never had friends and family - can lead to isolation. Sharing Department for Work and Pensions, MOD (on to a son, the address on the birth certificate given the chance to know her, and the many secrets still experiences with others who have been in similar developing policy) and Defence Infrastructure as Marylebone Workhouse. The father’s name isn’t surrounding her life, which surviving relatives situations can make a positive difference and make Organisation. More than a hundred people attended given. In June 1918 she gave birth to a daughter, have always been unwilling to discuss, sadly them feel less alone. I also feel that having a “voice” to the conference, giving delegates an opportunity to the address on the birth certificate identified as that remain undiscovered.” communicate with those who can influence policy may gather useful information, speak to relevant policy help others who have to face such issues in the future. I makers and meet others in similar situations. hope that, through FANDF, we can make some changes

18 19 DATES FOR YOUR

F R EEDOM T R AIL AUGUST 2019 This beautiful and demanding trek DIARY 2018-19 in the Pyrenees follows the Freedom Trail, or ‘Chemin de la Liberté’, one of the toughest WW2 escape routes from German occupied France into LEGACY CAMPAIGN NATIONAL ADOPTION WEEK Spain. Local people risked their lives 15-21 The focus for this year’s National to help the thousands of allied SEPT-OCT Look out for the six week OCTOBER Adoption Week is finding safe and servicemen and Jewish refugees Telegraph media partnership and loving homes for some of the most fleeing to safety. campaign, which will run between vulnerable children. 17 September - 28 October. Activity both Find out more: online and in the newspaper will encourage Did you know SSAFA runs the only SHROUDS OF THE SOMME ssafa.org.uk/freedom-trail readers to consider leaving a legacy to adoption service specifically for 8-18 NOVEMBER Shrouds of the Somme is an SSAFA. We will also have a presence at the those serving in the UK military? extraordinary arts remembrance Telegraph Legends Event on 16 October, with installation, depicting 72,396 special guest Sir Michael Caine CBE. hand-stitched shrouded figures laid out in perfect rows. Each figure represents a soldier who BLACK HISTORY MONTH OCTOBER died at the Battle of the Somme but whose body was never Black History Month is a chance recovered from the battlefield. to celebrate the achievements and contributions of people of 27 You can visit the display at African origin to the social, OCTOBER Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. political and cultural For more information: development and well-being of shroudsofthesomme.com 4-8 the UK. SEPTEMBER 2019 D Day Cycle Ride NATIONAL MENTO R ING DAY Commemorating 75 A special day to celebrate the work of years since the D Day GREAT WAR SYMPHONY our mentors in helping those who are Landings, our cycle ride in 09 transitioning out of the military. 2019 will include all the The Great War Symphony is a new OCTOBER beaches used for the landings choral symphony in aid of SSAFA and head inland to include the to commemorate the centenary of key locations that were the the First World War. The complete first to liberated. work will be premiered in London’s Royal Albert Hall in partnership For more information: with Classic FM. The concert will ARMISTICE DAY ddaycycleride.org.uk. bring together the National Youth 11 This year we commemorate Choirs of Great Britain, Royal NOVEMBER 100 years since the signing Philharmonic Orchestra, guest of the Armistice that ended soloists and military musicians plus the First World War. SSAFA choirs from around the country. representatives will be part of This year we commemorate 100 years Visit: royalalberthall.com the parade at to buy tickets. to remember those who gave since the signing of the Armistice that their lives for their country. ended the First World War.

20 21 STORIES FROM THE FIRST WORLD WAR RECOGINITION FOR OUR

SSAFA Buckinghamshire Branch Chairman John Stevens shared the story of his father. VOLUNTEERS QUEENS AWARD FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE SSAFA and shows that their inspirational fundraising for a AIR MARSHAL We were delighted to hear that two SSAFA branches local division is appreciated nationally. Band Chairman, were recipients of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Cathy McClintock, received the award from our President, Service - the MBE for volunteer groups - in June. HRH Prince Michael of Kent. SIR ALICK STEVENS Created in 2002 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Queen’s coronation, it is the highest award given to PRINCE MICHAEL OF KENT AWARD Alick Stevens was born in Jersey on 31 July 1898, local volunteer groups across the UK in recognition of This award goes to people who, in the opinion of the to a family of classical musicians. His grandfather outstanding work done in their own communities. Honours and Awards studied music in Leipzig, and his father was an Congratulations to SSAFA Perth & Kinross and Committee, best exemplify the organist and conductor of the Jersey Symphony Devon for receiving this fantastic accolade in work and ethos of SSAFA. This Orchestra at the turn of the 20th Century. recognition of their work supporting the local Armed year’s recipients were: Sir Alick wasn’t even 18 when he joined the Royal Forces community. Naval Air Service in June 1916. Aged only 18 years The Award recognises groups whose work has Dawn Civill-Williams and four months, he was taken as a prisoner of war significantly benefited others and sets the national Dawn joined SSAFA Bristol & in November 1916. benchmark for excellence in South Gloucestershire Branch in Later in his career he completed the acceptance volunteering by such groups. September 2015 as a trials into the RAF of the Sunderland Flying Boat. By Perth & Kinross President, caseworker. In June 2016 she the end of his time in the RAF he was Air Officer Brigadier MS Jameson CBE, became the Branch Chairman, a Commander-in-Chief Coastal Command, which, at said: “I could not be more proud role in which she has shone, the height of the Cold War, carried a very heavy of you and send you all my very quickly and effectively initiating workload. In addition to contributing to the founding sincere congratulations and action on volunteer recruitment, of NATO, Sir Alick represented the Air Council at the very warm thanks for all you do. fundraising, organising funeral of King George VI. He also attended and rode As an ex-serviceman myself, I awareness events, providing in the coronation of the Queen in 1953 before he know full well what challenges support for central office and retired. He died in 1987. the leaving serviceman and his family face once being an excellent ambassador Read his full story at: discharged, especially for many, sadly, on the mental for SSAFA. Dawn is much more ssafa.org.uk/air-marshal-sir-alick-stevens. health side. I know too the wonderful work you do in the than a highly successful two prisons in our area and commend you for that. Well Chairman of a busy branch, she works tirelessly for done one and all.” Service people and veterans by whatever means she can. She is second to none in her dedication and effectiveness FUNDRAISING AWARD FOR in the work of SSAFA. MOST INSPIRATIONAL GROUP OF FUNDRAISERS Julia O’Hara For almost a decade the Julia served as secretary of a service committee for five Huntingdon Concert Band has years. During this time, she has supported several provided support for SSAFA chairpersons and each year helped raise around £5,000. Cambridgeshire by nominating More recently, she has made an outstanding contribution Huntingdonshire and East as ‘stand-in’ chair, which has been especially impressive. Cambridgeshire Division as Faced with a significant gap before someone could fill Haven and SSAFA are pleased to be able to offer beneficiary of concerts that role Julia willingly volunteered to take on the organised jointly with military additional responsibility. Upbeat and positive, she has had you the chance to save up to an extra 10% on Haven bands. Since 2010 they have raised a profound impact, securing widespread praise and breaks and holidays. Plus with every booking made more than £20,000. This award admiration. She is modest and focused when tackling her Haven will make a donation to SSAFA. gives recognition to the Band duties. The only satisfaction she seeks is the knowledge members’ enthusiastic support of that a soldier or their family has been helped. Visit: haven.com/ssafa 23 INTRODUCING: SSAFA’S SIR JAMES NEW PARTNERSHIP GILDEA AWARDS Recognising excellence at SSAFA SIDE BY SIDE

Using the Side by Side brand to represent the our workforce is strengthened through their critical role that working in partnership plays to employment with ADS.” their organisation, Aramark Defence Services The company is also passionate about employing (ADS) announced a new five-year partnership veterans and helping them transition from the Forces with SSAFA to demonstrate their ongoing into a career at Aramark Defence Services. commitment to support the Armed Forces community. They bring an enthusiastic workforce of more than 4,000 employees to the oldest, tri-service UK charity to promote positive change The new SSAFA Sir James Gildea Awards are an in the military community. excellent opportunity for us to recognise volunteers ADS employees threw themselves into organising a and employees for exceptional contribution and wave of Big Brew Up events across the country – and commitment to SSAFA’s activities and values. THERE ARE TWO LEVELS OF AWARD: that was just the beginning. This single internal award scheme celebrates the Local Awards Support for SSAFA will also include donations from incredible work of both volunteers and employees across Certificates for those who have been successfully the sale of carrier bags across the company’s 42 the charity, both locally and globally. nominated for a Local Sir James Gildea Award will be Premier Stores, with an initial donation of more than The awards enable volunteers and employees, to presented between February and May 2019. £4,500, the introduction of collection tins at store tills nominate colleagues who they believe are deserving of and a planned calendar of fundraising events. the accolade and who make a real difference to the Global Awards Neil Shroeder, ADS’s Managing Director people we support. Recipients of Local Awards will be considered for Global commented: “We are passionate about supporting Volunteers or employees can be nominated for Awards, and a shortlist will be provided to the Vice the work that SSAFA does to improve the lives of our exceptional contribution or for activities which Chairman’s Committee for consideration and final decision- service personnel. Not only are they our customers, demonstrate one or more of SSAFA’s values: making. The Global Awards will be presented at the 2019 Understanding: Providing exceptional support to Annual Members’ Meeting in July. CASE STUDY: others (clients or colleagues). Helping those in need Ian Pullan (Area Operations Director, Catterick Region) without being judgemental about their circumstances. Six of the Global Award winners will be selected to receive an overnight stay for two at a UK hotel, courtesy of ‘Room “Serving for 24 years all over the world meant that Committed and Professional: Making an outstanding to Reward’. ‘Room to Reward’ is a charity which enables I was Forces through and through, but I know that contribution to a case or project. Persisting despite hoteliers with unsold rooms to donate them to the when I left it was my Army training that went on to tough obstacles to progress. deserving ‘hidden heroes’ working as volunteers or serve me in civilian life. This was helped by being Courageous: Taking on additional responsibilities or a employees of UK charities. able to complete work experience in a variety of tough challenge. companies that support ex-service personnel. My The deadline for nominations for 2019 is 15 October 2018. Forces background and willingness to learn Fair: Acting with integrity, promoting inclusivity. Please make sure your nominations are submitted by this became assets for a new career path at ADS. I date. Raising SSAFA’s profile/fundraising: Exceptional understand barracks requirements, having fundraising or awareness-raising activities. Being an More information and the nomination form can be found experienced them for myself. I also find that my ambassador or role model. on SSAFAnet. military-honed communication skills are vital in getting tasks done efficiently. I am proud to still be supporting the military and now giving back in a different way.” This is your chance to highlight SSAFA’s hidden heroes so that we can recognise and celebrate them.

24 25 R ALLY FOR 2018 HEROES CHRISTMAS

A sunny Thursday morning in August and Horse GIFTS Guards Parade was transformed into a petrol- head’s dream when more than 50 cars (including big names such as Aston Martin, Porsche, BMW, To browse SSAFA’s full range of Christmas Audi, Corvette, Mustang, McLaren, Lamborghini, cards and gifts, including online exclusive TVR and Mercedes) gathered for the start of the designs and products, visit: ssafastore.org.uk 2018 Rally for Heroes. Since 2010, Rally for Heroes has raised money Every order helps fund SSAFA’s work, for military charities (SSAFA since 2014) with a supporting our Armed Forces, veterans and tour of Europe, visiting ten countries in ten days and driving almost 3,000 miles — a minimum of their families. five miles for every service man or woman who Prices start from £3.50 for a pack of 10 cards lost their life during the conflict in Afghanistan. The team aims to raise £100,000 for each rally To receive your FREE copy of SSAFA’s (held every two years) and, prior to the 2018 event, Christmas catalogue, call: was £109,000 short of raising £1 million from the 01227 811 615 previous four events. We all waited with baited breath to hear from Major General Gaunt, who announced that an incredible £130,000 had been raised this year. Following a memorial service and blessing for the drivers, the Coldstream Guards provided some pomp and ceremony, playing classic military tunes to see the cars off down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace and on to Dover to start the tour. We are incredibly grateful to the whole team at Rally for Heroes and those who have taken part over the years to raise a phenomenal amount of money for SSAFA and other military charities.

Find out more at: rallyforheroes.com

26 27 SHROUDS OF THE SOMME

An extraordinarily powerful art commemoration to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK 8-18 NOVEMBER 2018 10AM - 7PM

shroudsofthesomme.com