“The Fund helped me get everything I needed to start again”

When former RAF serviceman Matt Neve faced financial uncertainty following injury and major life changes, the RAF Benevolent Fund provided vital support – helping to ease immediate pressures and enabling him to rebuild his life.

Matt joined the RAF in 2001 at the age of 16. He initially served as a driver, supporting airfield operations. In 2003, he deployed on Operation Telic, where his role exposed him to traumatic experiences, including transporting severely injured personnel. These events had a lasting impact on his mental health, ultimately leading to a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and his medical discharge in 2004.

Matt had been aware of the RAF Benevolent Fund since his early days in service, through basic training and Service Days Pay Giving. However, it wasn’t until later in life that he began to access its support more directly.

Matt said: “It took a long time for me to seek help. But during my time competing in the Invictus Games, I started opening up to other personnel and things began to click. It helped me realise the benefit of speaking to someone.”

The RAF Benevolent Fund has supported Matt at several critical points in his life, particularly during periods of financial difficulty and recovery. Following a serious accident in 2022, in which he suffered a brain bleed, back injury and leg injury, Matt was unable to work and faced significant financial uncertainty.

During this time, the Fund stepped in with financial support to help cover essential living costs. Matt recalls the impact this had on him and his family.

Matt said: “It was a massive relief. To have no money coming in, being injured and off work, you’re thinking, how am I going to support my family? It takes a huge weight off your shoulders.”

The Fund also helped Matt maintain his independence during his recovery, providing a mobility scooter that enabled him to continue daily activities without relying heavily on his family.

When Matt later went through a separation from his wife, he faced the challenge of starting again with very few possessions. Once again, the Fund provided vital support, helping him to set up a new home and rebuild his independence.

Matt continued: “After the separation, I had nothing. The Fund helped me get everything I needed to start again.”

The Fund supported his relocation to Scotland, helping with the costs of moving so he could begin the next chapter of his life.

In addition to financial assistance, the Fund has also offered Matt benefits advice to help him better understand what he was entitled to and how to manage during periods of change.

Reflecting on the role the Fund has played in his life, Matt highlights the consistency and reassurance it provides. “The Fund is always there, always willing to help. If I’m in a difficult situation, I know I can reach out – whether that’s for financial support or for my wellbeing.”

As a Fund Ambassador, Matt is passionate about encouraging others to seek support. He said: “Don’t be scared to ask for help. The support is there for you should you need it.”