External Grants for Charities Supporting the RAF Family
Every year we provide grants to charities and Community Interest Companies which provide direct and targeted assistance to the RAF Family. Our grants are designed to support an organisation’s operating costs where delivery of services does not match those we provide ourselves, unless there is an overlap in a way which enhances what we already do at the RAF Benevolent Fund.
Applying for a grant
Working with other veteran support groups allows us to extend our support to the RAF Family and broaden our reach as widely as possible.
Our scheme continues to offer opportunities for smaller charities to apply for grants up to £5,000. We are also excited to launch our new Partnership Grant scheme. We are looking to work with up to three larger organisations per year over a two to three year period.
Please read our Guidelines carefully before making your choice. For the Small Grants scheme you should follow the link to the Small Grants application form. Enquiries around the Partnership Scheme should be submitted by email to: externalgrants@rafbf.org.uk.
How grants are used
Veterans Outdoors exists to support military veterans, their spouses, and those transitioning to civilian life—especially those living with PTSD, trauma, and other mental and physical health conditions.
With tailored, therapeutic outdoor programmes designed by a qualified mental health practitioner and supported by trained welfare staff, Veterans Outdoors offers a unique blend of emotional and practical support. Activities focus on connection with nature, meaningful occupation, and peer support from those who truly understand.
Recognising a gap in provision for women veterans, Veterans Outdoors also runs the region’s only women-only wellbeing activities, led by a female veteran mental health practitioner. These safe, supportive spaces help women veterans feel seen, heard, and understood.
Thanks to funding from the RAF Benevolent Fund, Veterans Outdoors continues to deliver life-changing results—helping veterans improve their mental wellbeing, gain vital life skills, and rediscover a sense of purpose and belonging.
“We are proud of the work we do and thankful to the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund for helping us to continue to build better lives for British veterans.”
If you would like to have an initial conversation before applying, please contact: externalgrants@rafbf.org.uk.