ISSUE 10 | SPRING 2018 DESPATCHES

1918 2018

THERE THEN, HERE NOW

FOCUS ON FROM THE NETWORK CELEBRATING Transition Mentoring Pilot Nora Hill OBE RAF100 INSIDE THIS ISSUE WELCOME 16 6 14

A century ago, at the conclusion of ‘The Great launch of the Inclusion at SSAFA resource and War’, SSFA’s Annual Report reflected: our involvement in Armed Forces Day 2018 will “The workers of the Association will have a give you but a flavour of how SSAFA seeks to CONTENTS proud and abiding memory in that they have remain relevant, now and into the future. been privileged to take so prominent a part in To provide a royal thread from our past to our 4 Letter from President granting assistance to the Wives, Children, and future, in this edition we have letters from our Dependants of the men who served their King President in 1914, Queen Alexandra and from our 6 There then, here now and Country with such untiring valour for more current President, HRH Prince Michael of Kent. than four years at Sea, on Land, and in the Air.” We were there then and are still here now, 8 Transition Mentoring Pilot As we mark, amongst others, the centenaries relieving need, suffering and distress through 10 From the network of the Armistice, the formation of the RAF and our specialist services and unrivalled network of Universal Suffrage, we can look back with pride dedicated volunteers. 13 RAF100 at the role SSAFA has played in supporting the Forces family over that momentous century. 14 Case study: Craig This edition of Despatches will not only look 16 Glasgow’s Helping Heroes back at our illustrious history but will also highlight how we are making a real difference in 17 Gurkha services the lives of today’s heroes. Glasgow’s Helping Lieutenant General Sir Gary Coward KBE CB Heroes, the Transition Mentoring Pilot, the Chairman 19 Inclusion at SSAFA 27

20 Dates for your diary

22 Joining Forces

23 Unforgotten Heroes

24 Forcesline

27 Armed Forces Day

If you have any inputs for future

editions of Despatches, please send them to [email protected] 23

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. S264.0318 02 03

THERE THEN, HERE NOW

LETTER FROM SSFA PRESIDENT QUEEN ALEXANDRA TO SIR JAMES GILDEA LETTER FROM SSAFA PRESIDENT HRH PRINCE MICHAEL OF KENT GCVO

Christmas 1914

Although I fear our work in connection with the European War is not likely to be less arduous for many months, I am anxious to JANUARY 2018 convey through you to all our Office-bearers and Workers my high appreciation of their devoted labours and interest in this good cause. As we commemorate one hundred years since the end of the First World War, we remember and celebrate the thousands of I am fully aware that they have had to work under very unusual volunteers and employees supporting members of this Nation’s conditions, but I hear from many sources how all difficulties have, Armed Forces, veterans and their families since the formation so far as was possible, been met and surmounted by those of The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Families Association in 1885. responsible for the work. In spite of many changes over the years, the core purpose of I have nothing but the warmest praise for those who are devoting what is now SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity has remained themselves by day, and even far into the night, in endeavouring constant: to relieve need, suffering and distress amongst the to alleviate the circumstances of those dependent upon our brave Armed Forces, veterans and their families to provide for their Soldiers and Sailors who have obeyed their Country’s call, and are independence and dignity. now serving under the flag. Queen Alexandra’s words are as relevant today as they were in The help it has been possible to give through our army of 1914. I am touched and humbled that, one hundred years later, Voluntary Workers has been great indeed, but the influence and the commitment and dedication from the network of SSAFA sympathy established between recipients and the givers appear to volunteers and employees is just as strong. My greatest thanks me of even greater value, and will, I feel sure, have permanent and go to every one of you for working so tirelessly for those who far-reaching results. have ever served our country and their families.

I therefore take this opportunity of asking you to urge upon all SSAFA really does make a difference to those in need, and I am particularly proud to be President of an organisation that provides throughout the Kingdom the necessity not only of keeping up the such vital services to our Armed Forces. present organisation, but of strengthening and extending it in those Districts where it has not been so complete as I should wish.

04 05 any of the challenges of If you would like to find out more about SSFA 100 years ago remain and during the First World War and view the Flagbooks Mthe Armed Forces for 1914-1919, please visit our website: community continue to need our ssafa.org.uk/www1. help, although thankfully attitudes to As we commemorate the end of the First World unmarried women have moved on! War, 2018 is the ideal time to promote SSAFA, as we Our SSFA Flagbooks from the were there supporting our Forces and their families First World War period are a historical during the war and are still here now providing record of the remarkable work support one hundred years later. Our theme for the undertaken by volunteers during centenary is ‘There then, here now’. that demanding time, in fact it was A range of materials are available on SSAFAnet noted in the Report of the Council, and the Marketing Hub to assist your local activities. 1918-1919:

“...many cases of temporary distress of various Mr A H Godfrey, MBE, Honorary Secretary, kinds have been dealt with, and it is Woking Branch speaking at the Annual anticipated that assistance in various ways Meeting 15 July 1919, said, : will continue to be required for some time to “We are met after four years of come. It cannot be too generally realised that long-drawn-out agony, through which the Association is not solely a War Fund or we have been working at the highest Organisation, but that it deals with possible pressure. and we are met, Dependants after, as well as during, a War.” I take it, not merely to review the past though I think we have good cause to take pride and satisfaction in our past but to resolve and determine that our THERE THEN, efforts shall not be relaxed in the future. We shall continue the good work of this Association in giving relief, assistance, comfort, and sympathy to the HERE NOW wives, the families, the dependents of our soldiers, sailors, and airmen, who hen the bugle call rang out… there were two reactionary elements in the Church and the Government, have done so much for us.” sorts of recruiting going on, men answering who felt that the families of ‘unmarried mothers’ should “Wthe country’s call, and the noncombatants not be provided for. who came in their thousands to serve under the banner Miss Warren from Hampshire was typical of the sort of of SSFA.” cases that SSFA assisted with. Since her husband had At the outbreak of war in 1914, without a welfare system enlisted, she had no lodgings and no food and she was “so in place, the Government turned to The Soldiers’ and dirty that three lodging houses in Farnham refused to take Sailors’ Families Association (SSFA) and asked for help to fill her.” Accommodation was provided for Miss Warren and the gap that quickly appeared in support to the she was given 1s 6d for her food to ensure that she did not servicemen’s families. SSFA was appointed to distribute the have to walk the streets with her children. DID YOU HAVE AN ANCESTOR WHO FOUGHT IN THE WAR? National Relief Fund. Volunteers visited wives and SSFA was one of the first organisations to call for benefits As part of our First World War commemoration, we Please do share your own family stories by dependant relatives of soldiers and sailors to make sure to be distributed universally, regardless of circumstances. want to share 100 stories. If you had an ancestor who completing the form on our website: support was provided where and when it was needed most. The introduction of the Separation Allowance, distributed fought in the war, or perhaps was a volunteer for SSFA, ssafa.org.uk/share-first-world-war-story, including a As well as practical face-to-face support for families, by SSFA, was the first government payment made to we want to hear from you. This will form part of our photo of your relative if possible. Alternatively email SSFA was also leading the way on some very modern families as a matter of course. national campaign in 2018. your story to: [email protected]. issues. This included fighting and defeating the more

06 07 SPOTLIGHT ON… “While SSAFA will always be there for veterans in need, CATTERICK we hope that this trial service will demonstrate the benefits of early TRANSITION intervention that prevents the need from arising. If successful, we PILOT would look to roll out the scheme to all service leavers.” Mentoring trial to support serving personnel transitioning into civilian life Sir Andrew Gregory

e are delighted to be In a two-year trial at Catterick empower veterans. Mentors provide working with the Ministry Garrison in North Yorkshire, we will both emotional and practical Wof Defence, the British supplement the assistance already support, ranging from help with Army and the Career Transition provided to service personnel writing CVs and securing housing to Partnership (CTP) to enhance the preparing for civilian life. This encouraging new activities and Get 5% off travel insurance support already provided for those service will provide a SSAFA mentor hobbies in a bid to avoid social leaving the Army. for those who would benefit from exclusion. while supporting SSAFA While most service leavers thrive additional support in navigating The trial at Catterick Garrison will in civilian life, research transition challenges. widen the eligibility for our mentoring commissioned by SSAFA has As part of our strategy looking at service and will help measure the identified a ‘forgotten generation’ of prevention rather than cure, we are effectiveness of offering a mentor for working-age veterans who have to providing more support for people all service leavers. The trial is open to cope with an increasingly during the transition period, to help Army service leavers who are in the complicated range of challenges them help themselves. By last three months of service (and after leaving the Forces. addressing concerns early on, we their spouses and partners) who are Our research shows that the hope veterans can avoid registered with the Catterick Get 5% off our competitive, value-for-money travel insurance, with transition period when leaving the complications around employment, resettlement centre for up to two military benefits included. For every policy sold through our dedicated page, Armed Forces is a pivotal time for finances, mental health, or other years post discharge. we’ll make a donation in support of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity! those taking their first steps back issues that escalate to the stage Service leavers in Catterick can into civilian life. where more drastic intervention apply for a mentor via their CTP To get this special offer visit: may be necessary. Employment Advisor Career www.talktotrinity.com/ssafa-travel-insurance The SSAFA mentoring scheme Consultant as part of their already provides mentoring support resettlement provision or directly via In support of: MENTORS PROVIDE for Wounded, Injured and Sick SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity. BOTH EMOTIONAL (WIS) personnel leaving the If you would like to apply to be AND PRACTICAL services. SSAFA has a network of a mentor or find out more about our volunteer mentors across the UK service, please visit: SUPPORT... who work to motivate, support and ssafa.org.uk/mentoring

08 09 FROM THE NETWORK FOCUS ON WORLE SELF BRISTOL AND BUILD PROJECT SOUTH GLOUCESTER Approximately three years ago, in partnership with Knightstone Housing Association, a project for BRANCH veterans commenced in Worle, North Somerset to build their own homes, learn new skills and rebuild MRS NORA KATHLEEN HILL OBE their confidence. SSAFA Bristol and South Gloucester assisted by Family legend has it that long-serving SSAFA almonising funds for tools and equipment for working volunteer Nora Kathleen Hill taught the Prince of on the site, along with goods to furnish the properties Wales - later Edward VIII - to dance. and much more. The emotional support given to the Nora’s grandson Kim Hill said: “My father used to say veterans was also an important role for caseworkers that my grandmother taught the Prince of Wales to Dawn Civill-Williams and Dick Hyde. homelessness, sofa-surfing, poverty and a general dance. She was a dance instructor and I believe Queen Dawn said, “I can honestly say that this project was feeling of being let down by society into individuals who Mary spent most of the war at Badminton with the one of the most difficult to casework. The problems have now moved into their homes. They have pride, self Duke and Duchess of Beaufort, so it’s definitely encountered included suicide and drug/alcohol respect and live in a veteran community supporting

possible. I suspect my grandmother could have been Nora dependency. I often questioned my role as a each other.” introduced to the Prince via the Duchess of Beaufort, caseworker and if our remit with regards to the Dawn added “I would do this again without a second who was Chair of SSAFA Bristol at the time.” significant problems encountered was manageable by thought! In fact, SSAFA Bristol and South Whether or not she did teach the future king, what is Dick and myself. Looking back now, I can say that Gloucestershire is working with South Gloucestershire

certain is that Nora was not one to duck a challenge. William without a doubt it was all worth it. I’m proud to say that Council to identify land to hopefully have a project in Already a SSAFA volunteer, Nora took on the role of SSAFA assisted these people in transitioning from South Gloucester in the very near future.” Honorary Secretary to the Bristol City and County She became Vice President of the Bristol City and Branch in 1937. County Branch in 1945, a position she held until her By the end of the Second World War, the branch death in 1950. A letter to the Western Daily Press from had five paid staff, 100 volunteers and was managing SSAFA Joint Honorary Secretaries Mrs MW Dight and in excess of 8,000 cases. Aided by her husband Lt Col EV Argles said of Mrs Hill: “She kept the flag of William John Hill, who was the Honorary Branch SSAFA flying during the war and many families of Treasurer, Mrs Hill raised more than £10,000 (around servicemen have cause to be grateful for her kindly £400,000 today) to continue SSAFA’s work. She help and advice, in which she was assisted in many opened a clothing depot and the first hostel for quiet ways by her husband. She was a woman of very servicemen’s children in the country. The branch also great charm and with a personality, which endeared distributed toys to children at Christmas. itself to everyone with whom she came into contact. Mrs Hill received an OBE for her charity work in the We feel we have lost a true friend and a most loveable 1944 New Year Honours list. character.”

DID YOU KNOW? Only 7% of the UK population leave a charity bequest. Will you be one of them? To download a free Will Planner, visit ssafa.org.uk/legacy

10 11 FROM THE NETWORK

VOLUNTEER PROFILE Celebrating 100 ALISON CROWE years of the RAF Date joined SSAFA: May 2007 Location: Shorncliffe Volunteer role: Committee Chair 26 October 1931 One of the all-time classic British Novice to Alison’s journey with SSAFA began aircraft designs, the de Havilland Tiger more than ten years ago, when she Moth, takes to the air for the first time. moved to Brunei and wanted to get cycling pro more involved with the community. When the opportunity to organise the 5 March 1936 15 September 1945 13 August 1914 Kathy Munslow, Division Secretary for Staffordshire, didn’t even SSAFA ‘Young Achiever Awards’ came The Supermarine model 300 - later The first Battle of Britain anniversary The aeroplane first went to war; No 2 own a bike when she was inspired to sign up for the three-day Ride up, she readily agreed. named Spitfire - made its maiden flight flypast, led by 247 Squadron in their Squadron Royal Flying Corps led 60 to the Somme challenge. She wanted to commemorate her “At the time, the resident battalion was at Eastleigh aerodrome. Test pilot new Vampire fighters. aircraft from Dover to France - BE-2 grandfather, Leonard George Kelsall, who fought at the Somme. away on operations, so the Awards were ‘Mutt’ Summers’ famous comment to biplane. Kathy’s grandmother had told her that she had received a letter a very welcome “feel good” event in the design team after the flight was 1 February 1949 from the War Office to say Leonard was missing and presumed recognition of the achievements of “don’t touch anything”. The Women’s Auxiliary Air Force is dead. Little did they know that six weeks after he had been found military children in Brunei. This event 29 November 1917 renamed the Women’s . injured and taken to safety by a Gurkha soldier, he would show up represented just one of the ways that the King George V gives Royal Assent to at home, without warning, alive and well! Brunei Committee supported the needs create a new section of British Military. Going from a complete cycling novice to completing a 168-mile of the community at that particular time”. 1 April 1969 bike ride is an amazing achievement. In recognition of her incredible Since then, Alison has had the The world’s first vertical take off and 1 April 1918 challenge, Kathy won the BBC Radio Stoke Power of Sport Award opportunity to experience different landing (VTOL) aircraft, the Harrier, RAF officially formed, bringing at the Sport Across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent (SASSOT) volunteer roles with several Committees, enters service. together Royal Flying Corps and the annual Sports Awards Ceremony. across three different countries. “Each Royal Naval Air Service – the world’s Kathy isn’t stopping there. She is now setting up a cycling club role has, of course, been very different, first independent air force. 1990 called Cycle-Ops for veterans in her area. “When I did the Ride to and each community has its own SSAFA starts providing the Somme, I quickly learnt how great it was in terms of exercise particular needs”, says Alison “but SSAFA 28 June 1939 RAF Personal Support and Social Work and companionship. I also realised that what most service people has been able to respond appropriately. 14 July 1919 The Women’s Auxiliary Air Force Service (PW&SWS). miss is each other’s company.” She wants the local Forces family to This includes supporting community Letter to Sir James Gildea (WAAF) is formed. have a chance to get together for a regular group ride, which she initiatives, granting funds and offering from Queen Alexandra promises will be much less challenging than Ride to the Somme! emotional support to those going “I hardly like the idea of changing our June 1991 She does, however, have her sights on the group completing the through a difficult time”. old title of ‘The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ 10 July 1940 Flight Lieutenant Julie Ann Ride to Dunkirk in 2019. “On a personal level, working with Families Association,’...It has struck me, First phase of the Gibson became the RAF’s A selection of new videos, including one featuring Kathy talking SSAFA has been very rewarding and has however, from conversations I have had Battle of Britain begins. first female pilot. about her fundraising experience, are available via the fundraising been a welcome constant in the many with others on the subject, that our section of our website: ssafa.org.uk/fundraise. different places I’ve lived since becoming Airmen, having helped 22 February 1942 July 2008 You can find out more and sign up to this year’s Ride to the a volunteer”, she adds. “I’ve also had the England so splendidly to Air Marshal Arthur “Bomber” Harris is RAF’s Typhoon Force was Somme by visiting: ridetothesomme.org.uk. opportunity to undergo relevant training, win the great War, that appointed Commander-in-Chief RAF declared operational as a been invited to sit on a working group for we might, and perhaps Bomber Command. multi-role fighter force. the SSAFA 125 branding initiative, gained ought, to add ‘Airmen’ employment as Publicity Officer Western to the name of the Europe in Germany - and even Association, and that 5 March 1943 2017 represented SSAFA as a volunteer at a in future our title The only jet aircraft to serve with the SSAFA contract to provide RAF reception at Number 10! Moreover, I have should be: ‘The RAF in World War II, the Gloster PS&SWS awarded for further had the chance to work with some Soldiers’, Sailors’, and Meteor, is flown for the first time. three years. inspirational volunteers, staff and service Airmen’s Families users along the way”. Association.” 6 June 1944 2018 Share your volunteer story via: D-Day SSAFA there then, here now. [email protected]. 13 CASE STUDY CRAIG “YOU CAN’T BEAT THROWING A POT AFTER A STRESSFUL DAY AT WORK.”

raig joined the First Battalion a bit. I managed to get an appointment with a Devonshire & Dorset Regiment in 1990, psychiatrist at Combat Stress, who diagnosed Cat the age of 16 and transferred to the me with PTSD.” Royal Engineers in 1996. After an active As part of his therapy, Craig was given the career which saw him complete tours of opportunity to try pottery. He found it so Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq and useful that he decided to take it up long-term Afghanistan, he was discharged in 2013. and sought help from SSAFA caseworker He said: “I volunteered for redundancy – I Janet Brewer. thought it was time. I enjoyed everything He said: “Janet managed to secure funding about my time in the Army. I don’t regret any and grants to pay for a pottery wheel and kiln of it. Of course, there were bad times and so I can work at home. It’s a great stress relief. good times but, it was good. The Army is a It can take all your worries away because you way of life, and it’s been very hard adjusting to are just focusing on that one thing. It keeps civvy street.” you out of trouble. You can’t throw a pot with When he left the Army, Craig moved in with a can of lager in your hand! his partner, but when the relationship broke “It also gets me out and about. I’m away down, he ended up living in a summer house from my family here. It would be very easy to and found his mental health deteriorating. He just stay at home and isolate myself. I can’t said: “I’m quite embarrassed about it now, but thank SSAFA enough. It has changed my life. it was like I was in fight mode rather than flight Craig now works in the control room at an mode. I wasn’t behaving like myself. I was Essex port and is undertaking a City & Guilds aggressive, I was using drink as a coping course in ceramics. mechanism. I did at one point end up You can view Craig’s creations via his homeless, and I just ended up sofa-surfing for website: potteryptsd.co.uk.

14 15 GURKHA SERVICES SPOTLIGHT ON…

In 2017, SSAFA received an award of more than worker in Kent and Wiltshire, to provide support for £500,000 to initiate a project to provide greater translation and build links with the community. GLASGOW’S support for Gurkha veterans and their families. • Introductory presentations to the Nepali community According to the Gurkha Welfare Trust, there are about what support SSAFA can provide and how an estimated 12,794 retired Gurkhas settled in the UK the community can support SSAFA. HELPING HEROES with their families. Our experience shows that Gurkha • Providing cultural awareness training for branches Glasgow’s Helping Heroes is a partnership between SSAFA veterans have complicated needs, including many to increase understanding of the Nepali culture. who are elderly and infirm, with low literacy levels and • Creating an information booklet on common and Glasgow City Council, which has been in place since 2010. limited English language skills. questions on Gurkha migration, for SSAFA The project has a dedicated team in place to caseworkers. coordinate support for Gurkha veterans across • Translating documentation such as Form A and SSAFA more effectively, including activities such as: Notes for clients into Nepali. It is hoped that this improved support will relieve • Holding a conference to share best practice across unnecessary hardship, poverty and suffering, reduce those branches that have a Gurkha population in isolation, and increase wellbeing amongst Gurkha their area. veterans and families in the UK. • A recruitment drive for Nepali speaking volunteers, particularly in Kent, Wiltshire and Aldershot. For more information, please contact: • Recruitment for a Gurkha Community Support [email protected].

The team helps the local Armed Forces community Glasgow’s Helping Heroes work closely with the access personalised support for housing issues, help Glasgow Branch, and they each frequently cross-refer, with employment and training dealing with debt or rent so that the client gets the best possible service from arrears, and assistance relating to health problems. the most appropriate source. They can offer anything from an informal chat to a full assessment of issues and referral, if appropriate, to specialist services. Glasgow’s Helping Heroes Haven and SSAFA are pleased to Through the partnership with Glasgow City Council, Pearce Institute be able to offer you the chance to Glasgow’s Helping Heroes has recently moved to a new 840-860 Govan Road office, complete with furniture and storage. The Pearce Glasgow G51 3UU save up to an extra 10% on Haven Institute, a Grade 1 listed building and well-known breaks and holidays. Plus, with Drop-in centre open 9am-4pm Monday to Friday. landmark in Govan, is a much bigger and brighter space every booking made Haven will for clients to visit the team. Its location, opposite Govan Telephone: 0141 276 7199 underground and bus station, makes the office easy to Email: glasgow’[email protected] make a donation to SSAFA. get to by public transport or car. Visit www.haven.com/ssafa 16 INCLUSION AT THE HEART SSAFA JOINS OF EVERYTHING WE DO

FORCES WITH SSAFA prides itself on being fair. This means being consistent in how we deal with people; acting with integrity and not making moral judgements; not BATTLE PROMS discriminating; promoting inclusivity and diversity. For more than 130 years, we have helped our Armed Forces, veterans and dependants, regardless of religion, social difference and politics.

“And where we have been so very successful is, I think, that we have been able to drop all questions of politics, all questions of religion, all questions of social difference, and we have made a real coalition, to work with only one object the women and children.”

e are delighted to announce that SSAFA is the - Mr R G D Thomas speaking at new charity partner of Battle Proms, the UK’s BOOK A SPECTACULAR NIGHT OUT, SAVE the Annual Meeting 18 June 1915 Wpremier picnic concert series. MONEY AND RAISE FUNDS FOR SSAFA The Battle Proms are summer celebrations with toe- tapping vintage vocals, sublime classical music from a Book online at www.battleproms.com using the 60-piece orchestra, a carefully choreographed Spitfire display discount code SSAFAProms18 and you will get a £3 In order to continue to help the Armed forces and spectacular freefall demonstration by the Red Devils, plus per ticket discount* AND Battle Proms will donate an community to the best of our ability, we need to dramatic cavalry and cannon fire displays. The perfect ‘party extra £1 to SSAFA for every ticket you buy. understand all we can about their needs. For example, in the park’ then culminates in a flag waving, sing-a-long some will be married, others will be parents, and some are finale complete with spectacular musical firework display. Please note, ticket prices go up on 1 May, so book early a different race or religion. Annually attracting more than 40,000 visitors to five of the for the best price. In February, we launched an online reference for UK’s most celebrated stately homes, Battle Proms offers a everyone at SSAFA to gain a better understanding of fantastic opportunity for SSAFA to raise awareness of and * SSAFAProms18 discount code applies to Standard each other’s needs. This is a chance for you to learn more funds for our work. Adult and Child Tickets and will give a £3 per ticket and to help our beneficiaries better. You can find Are you ready to pack up the hampers and champers and discount. If using the code to purchase Battle Proms ‘Inclusion at SSAFA’ on SSAFAnet in the ‘All About enjoy one of these memorable and spectacular concerts? & Bubbly or Battle Proms with a Classic Picnic, these SSAFA’ section. packages include two adult tickets and you will If you want to know more, have any questions or • Burghley House, Lincolnshire - Saturday 7 July receive a £6 per package discount when redeeming comments, contact Nella Waters, the Learning, • Hatfield House, Hertfordshire - Saturday 14 July the code. This code cannot be used in conjunction Development and Inclusion business partner: • Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire - Saturday 21 July with any other discount code and excludes Concert [email protected] (020 7463 9347) • Highclere Castle (AKA Downton Abbey), Hampshire Pavilion Tickets. - Saturday 4 August • Ragley Hall, Warwickshire - Saturday 11 August

18 19 DATES FOR YOUR

DIXONS CARPHONE DIARY 2018 RACE TO THE STONES 14 Take part in one of the UK’s JULY biggest long distance treks or runs for SSAFA on the Ridgeway, VOLUNTEERS’ WEEK RAF100 Britain’s oldest path. 100km is BIG BREW UP 1 One hundred years ago, 01-07 Volunteers are the heart and soul all that stands in your way as you APRIL King George V authorised the JUNE of SSAFA. Volunteers’ Week is a 25-30 You can hold a Big Brew Up at walk, jog or run to the historic JUNE creation of a new branch of the chance to celebrate the fantastic any time, but we suggest holding Avebury Stone Circle. British military. It was formed in contribution they make, supporting it around Armed Forces Day as More information at: response to the growing role of service men and women, veterans an excellent way to show support ssafa.org.uk/fundraise/ airpower in warfare and created by and their families. to the Armed Forces. So stick on challenge-events/trek merging the aviation branches of the kettle and have a brew – it’s the and amazing what a cup of tea can do. together into a single service, the Order your fundraising pack at: Royal Air Force. There will be a 9 F R EEDOM T R AIL ssafa.org.uk/bigbrewup range of events to commemorate JUNE This beautiful and demanding this anniversary. 14 trek in the Pyrenees follows the AUGUST Freedom Trail, or ‘Chemin de Find out more at: 30 la Liberté’, one of the toughest raf.mod.uk/raf100/ JUNE ARMED FORCES Second World War escape routes HEINEKEN RACE TO THE TOWER DAY from Nazi occupied France into 12 A chance to show your support for the men Spain. Local people risked their MAY D UL UX T R AD E From quaint idyllic villages to medieval burial and women who make up the Armed Forces lives to help the thousands of grounds, the Cotswold Way will take you all the LONDON R EVOLUTION community: from currently serving troops to allied servicemen and Jewish way to the foot of the magnificent Broadway Service families, veterans and cadets. There refugees fleeing to safety. Take part in the biggest two-day cycle events in the UK, Tower. Whether you want to walk, jog or run, will be a range of events across the country. with 2,500 riders taking on this 185-mile loop of the this fantastic new challenge is the perfect way Find out more at: capital. Pedal through the heart of the City, passing to raise funds for SSAFA while viewing some of See page 27 or to find out more at: ssafa.org.uk/fundraise/ the iconic sights, before taking on the stunning North the UK’s most beautiful countryside. armedforcesday.org.uk 29 challenge-events/trek Downs, historic Thames Valley and the unrelenting AUGUST Sign up now: ssafa.org.uk/fundraise/ Chilterns whilst raising vital funds for SSAFA. challenge-events/trek More information at: 02 SEPTEMBER ssafa.org.uk/fundraise/challenge-events/cycle

23 R ACE TO T HE KING After the huge success of our 2016 and VITALITY LONDON 10,000 2017 rides, we are delighted to announce JUNE Race to the King is the stunning a brand new route for 2018, starting at 28 You’ll pass many of London’s famous South Downs walk, jog or run, taking the Royal Engineers Museum in MAY sights including: Nelson’s Column, St you from Arundel to the magnificent Weekends Chatham and ending in Armistice Paul’s Cathedral, the Old Bailey, Winchester Cathedral. This is a in July and BATTLE P R OMS Glade on 1 September. Commemorate Somerset House, the Houses of challenge for all ages, sizes and August See the advert on the back the cycling soldiers that fought and fell Parliament and Westminster Abbey, as fitness levels. Whether you’re a page for full details. along the Western Front. you fundraise for SSAFA in this 10k run. seasoned runner, patient plodder or weekend walker, choose to camp More information at: Sign up now: ssafa.org.uk/fundraise/ over the weekend or take ssafa.org.uk/fundraise/challenge- challenge-events/run/vitality- about any of these events, on the full distance in one go. If you would like to find out more events/cycle london-10000 or would like some help with a local fundraising activity, Register at: ssafa.org.uk/fundraise/ please contact: [email protected] challenge-events/trek

20 21 HEADER

Joining Forces is a Ministry Nationally, there is a new section of Defence supported project of Age UK’s website with tailored to improve the quality of life and information for older veterans, their wellbeing of veterans (anyone who family or carers, as well as a service has completed at least one day of matching isolated older veterans military service) born before 1950, with volunteers through the ‘Call in their family and carers. Time’ telephone befriending service. Age UK is partnering with SSAFA, They will also be piloting a bespoke the Armed Forces charity, to deliver app to help support the needs of the 12 local projects across England. This older person and sending out a involves a partnership between the regular email newsletter tailored LOCATIONS local Age UK and SSAFA branch, to their audience. FOR THE offering face-to-face conversations The ultimate aim of the project PROJECTS ARE: with older veterans and their family is to join the different sources of members or carer. support available to older veterans • Cheshire East and to produce services to reflect • Darlington any gaps in provision. • Gloucestershire Through the Joining Forces • Lancashire UNFORGOTTEN project, we hope to engage more than • Leicestershire & Rutland 45,000 older veterans and to be able • Nottingham & Nottinghamshire to demonstrate improvements in • Portsmouth FORCES quality of life and wellbeing through • Tyne & Wear Unforgotten Forces is partnership among 15 of Poppyscotland is the lead partner. In addition to an evaluation by the University of Bath. • West Cumbria the leading organisations supporting older veterans coordinating the consortium, additional funding has Joining Forces is supported by • Wirral and their families in Scotland, including SSAFA. enabled them to introduce a new Break Away service the Aged Veterans Fund, funded by • Wolverhampton The consortium was awarded £4 million of LIBOR providing short holidays in the UK for older veterans. the Chancellor using money from • Worcestershire funding from the Aged Veterans Fund to undertake a The great benefit of the project is that these partners the LIBOR banking fines. three-year programme of support for older veterans over work together closely and collaboratively. Any older the age of 65 and their families in Scotland. Launched in veteran referred to any partner is automatically July 2017, the Unforgotten Forces consortium is delivering considered for the range of all services available. a range of new services, as well as enhancements to Where appropriate, and with the permission of the existing support, in areas including advice, access to veteran, they will be seamlessly cross-referred for Emma Bridgewater Mug healthcare, tackling loneliness and social isolation, helping simultaneous support across the partnership. SSAFA HAS COMMISSIONED THIS LIMITED EDITION MUG with hearing and sight loss, respite and creative SSAFA’s role involves identifying and then referring TO MARK THE CENTENARY OF THE FIRST WORLD WAR. activities and events for those in care settings. older veterans to other appropriate partners for specialist support and services during the normal course of caseworking. In other words, membership of Unforgotten The exclusive design, illustrated by Emma Bridgewater, features a timeline highlighting key dates and moments Forces provides SSAFA’s Scottish caseworkers with an LAUNCHED IN JULY 2017, THE enhanced toolkit of additional services with which to help in SSAFA's history. UNFORGOTTEN FORCES improve the lives and wellbeing of older veterans. Similarly, all partners can and will make referrals to The mug is available to purchase via the SSAFA CONSORTIUM IS DELIVERING SSAFA, where appropriate. If you would like more online store: ssafastore.org.uk for £24.95. A RANGE OF NEW SERVICES AS information about Unforgotten Forces, please contact WELL AS ENHANCEMENTS TO Terry Donoghue, Volunteer Support Manager EXISTING SUPPORT ON OFFER [email protected]

22 23 The team receives EFFECTIVE 2,000 - 2,500 SUPPORT calls and emails every month. SSAFA Forcesline: a place of help and understanding

Set up in 2002, Forcesline is the first point of contact for many people who come to SSAFA for support. Forcesline’s mission: ‘To provide and maintain a confidential, non-judgmental guidance and information helpline to the Armed Forces and veterans community, their families and dependants.’ The team has identified three key approaches DEMONSTRATING to helping a caller: Empathy: trying to see the world of another Our message person from their point of view; listen sensitively; GDPR COMPLIANCE try to make sense of what you hear; check to - we’ve got your back, don’t see that we’ve understood the caller’s needs. SSAFA, along with other businesses, Those selected provided details of how their be too proud to ask for help. public and private sector services, charities caseworkers use beneficiaries’ data, both those Genuineness: being real, being human, whilst and community groups, is working towards they are currently working with and those they maintaining a high level of professionalism; compliance with the new ‘General Data have helped in the past. We also asked about being aware of boundaries and avoiding Protection Regulation’ (GDPR). From 25 May fundraising or marketing activities using self-disclosure. The call is always about the 2018, SSAFA will need to demonstrate that an individual’s personal data, as well as how caller, not the Forcesline advisor. we have plans and processes in place to show personal details of volunteers (past and Being non-judgmental: accepting the person that we, and the suppliers we use, are present) are retained and stored. that we are trying to help and believing that GDPR compliant. This has provided good insight into how each caller is worthy. We collect a great deal of information personal data is captured, used and retained about people, and we all have a responsibility by our volunteers and will help shape our plans to protect that information and use it responsibly. and processes for the future. In addition, we In 2017, Forcesline received 26,759 contacts, Data should be collected for a specific purpose have been conducting a thorough review of which was a 5 per cent increase on 2016. and should only be used for that purpose. our procedures and systems, including our Therefore, every SSAFA employee and volunteer policies and training requirements. should already be thinking about the data they’re We will be providing more GDPR awareness The highest percentage of calls in 2017 related collecting, saving and sharing on a daily basis. and detailed data protection training in the to debt (32%), but of course with debt comes To understand how SSAFA Branches, coming months, but in the meantime, please so much more. Debt might lead to many other Divisions and In-Service Committees capture, do visit the GDPR page on SSAFAnet for more problems, such as addiction, poor mental retain and use personal data, both electronically information. If you have any questions, please health and homelessness. and on paper, we selected a sample group with email [email protected] and one Most regular referrals to other organisations representation from each region. of the project team will be happy to respond. are to: Forces Law; Hidden Wounds; Combat Stress; Veterans UK; Army Families Federation; Data should be collected for a specific purpose Army Welfare Intake and Assessment Team. NEED SSAFA’S HELP? Forcesline also regularly refer people to our Call FORCESLINE ON 0800 731 4880 and should only be used for that purpose. network of branches to provide assistance Lines open 9.00 to 17.30 weekdays locally.

24 25 WHATS NEW INTRODUCING THE MARKETING HUB The new Marketing Hub is your one-stop shop for How do I access the site? ordering SSAFA branded items and volunteer A link to the new Marketing Hub is available via adminstration documentation. SSAFAnet, either from the left hand side of the Rather than having to go to three different areas to homepage, or via the SSAFA Branded Items page order leaflets, forms and merchandise, you can now order within the Raising our profile section. everything from one place. So whether you need posters to advertise an event, How do I use the Marketing Hub? leaflets to promote SSAFA in your area, wrist bands or The site has been designed to be simple to use, T-shirts, tablecloths and gazebos, or some more Notes much like an online store. If you need any guidance, a for clients, the Marketing Hub is the place to go. quick start guide is available on SSAFAnet, along with Many items are free; others you can personalise and FAQs within the Marketing Hub itself. If however, you ARMED FORCES DAY download to print yourself. Alternatively, your branch/ have any queries that are not resolved via one of these service committee can purchase larger items, such as options, please email [email protected] for 30 JUNE 2018 gazebos and banners, directly from our supplier. additional support.

rmed Forces Day is a chance to show your support for the men and women who Amake up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets. Reserves Day on 27 June will also provide an opportunity for the country to recognise our Reserve Forces. This year, the tenth anniversary, the national Armed Forces Day event will be held in Llandudno in Conwy County on Saturday 30 June 2018. The event will be a fantastic focal point for the UK to come together to acknowledge the hard work and sacrifice of those who serve. THE FUTURE OF THE CASEWORK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM SSAFA is the official Charity Partner of the Armed Forces Day Gala Dinner, to be held by We are pleased that SSAFA, on behalf beneficiary’s circumstances and Conwy County Borough Council on Friday 29 of Cobseo and the military charity providing a fuller picture of assistance June 2018. sector, will continue to deliver the received. The aim is that the new CMS Conwy County Borough Council is passionate critical Casework Management System will reduce data input, improve data about Armed Forces Day being a catalyst for (CMS). The new CMS, which will improve sharing across organisations and reduce further embedding the work the Council does the way that we record and manage referral and waiting times. within the Armed Forces Covenant. SSAFA will be cases across the sector, will be In conjunction with this, an updated working with the Council to support the Gala introduced later this year. Form A is being created to ensure Dinner as well as other activities taking place in While we appreciate that this will compliance with the new General Data Conwy around Armed Forces Day. require training and time to adjust, the Protection Regulation (GDPR). In addition to the national event, Armed Forces new system is centred around the Volunteers will be involved in the Day activities will be taking place across the beneficiary rather than the case and development and testing of the system. country. Find out what’s happening near you: Form A application, improving a More information on its rollout to the armedforcesday.org.uk/find-events/. caseworker’s view on historical and network will be made available current information regarding the throughout the coming months.

26 27 Are you ready to pack up the hampers and champers and enjoy one of these memorable and spectacular concerts?

SATURDAY 7 JULY Burghley House, Lincolnshire SATURDAY 14 JULY Hatfield House, Hertfordshire SATURDAY 21 JULY Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire SATURDAY 4 AUGUST Highclere Castle (AKA Downton Abbey), Hampshire SATURDAY 11 AUGUST Ragley Hall, Warwickshire

BOOK A SPECTACULAR NIGHT OUT, SAVE MONEY AND RAISE FUNDS FOR SSAFA Book online at www.battleproms.com using the discount code SSAFAProms18 and you will get a £3 per ticket discount* AND Battle Proms will donate an extra £1 to SSAFA for every ticket you buy.

Please note, ticket prices go up on 1 May, so book early for the best price.

* SSAFAProms18 discount code applies to Standard Adult and Child Tickets and will give a £3 per ticket discount. If using the code to purchase Battle Proms & Bubbly or Battle Proms with a Classic Picnic, these packages include two adult tickets and you will receive a £6 per package discount when redeeming the code. This code cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount code and excludes Concert Pavilion Tickets.

Registered as a charity in England and Wales Number 210760, in Scotland Number SCO38056 and in Republic of Ireland Number 20006082. Established 1885. S263.0218