Charity highlights ongoing support for veterans ahead of Armed Forces Day
UK'S leading Veteran's charity, SSAFA, continues support across the South East
An Armed Forces charity is encouraging more people to support veterans and their families, as many continue to face challenges after leaving the military service.
SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has teams of volunteers working across the country, including the South East. They provide emotional, financial and practical support to those who have served in the Army, Royal Navy or RAF.
The charity says issues like debt, housing insecurity, poor mental health and social isolation are common among veterans adjusting to civilian life.
Martin Bell is the Community Engagement Lead in Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire. He says that their volunteers visit local hospitals like Addenbrooke's in Cambridgeshire, speaking directly with veterans in order to offer them tailored support.
"Some people just want to tell us about their service which is great, others may want to talk about what issues they're having and we can help them based on that."
In Berkshire, SSAFA representatives are also taking part in community events such as an Armed Forces Day parade in Newbury on Saturday 28 June, to celebrate those who have served our country.
Barry Dickens, Chairman of SSAFA in Berkshire, says public events can play an important role in showing veterans that they are appreciated for their service.
"The royal engineers will be exercising their freedom, marching through Newbury, and it should be a splendid occasion for all to get involved."
SSAFA is always looking for new volunteers to join its regional teams. The charity has been supporting members of the Armed Forces community for over 130 years, and remains committed to providing lifelong assistance in all aspects of life including:
- Housing advice
- Debt advice
- Help with mobility
- Homelessness
- Residential housing
- Grievance
It's a support service for both veterans and their families, with a commitment to providing lifelong assistance.
SSAFA urges the public to take the time to appreciate our veterans in the lead up to Armed Forces Day.