"It’s been a long, hard road for me – the Fund has helped get me through it"

Following a successful career in the RAF, Andy's life was deeply impacted by personal loss and mental health challenges. With the support of the Fund’s Community Engagement Workers, Andy has regained meaningful connections and lives a more fulfilling and socially enriching life.

RAF veteran Andy Russell joined the RAF at just 17 years old, beginning his career at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire. He rose through the ranks in RAF catering, learning quickly and developing a passion for service. Andy once managed a team of 60 staff and orchestrated high-level banquets at RAF Halton, serving everyone from senior officers to members of the Royal Family and Prime Ministers.

Andy said: "I organised the functions, ran the bars and dining rooms, managed cleaning and room service staff, did the ordering and banqueting. But most of all, I enjoyed working with the people."

However, after leaving the RAF, Andy’s life began to unravel. Following the tragic death of his second daughter whilst he was stationed in Germany, his marriage broke down. He struggled with grief, addiction, and mental health challenges, eventually leading him into a cycle of homelessness that lasted nearly four years.

He said: "You’d think someone who had 60 staff and ran catering at that level would be able to cope. I was struggling massively. I never thought to ask for help at the time."

Thanks to the support from various armed forces charities, Andy experienced a turning point. He was able to move into a new property and the RAF Benevolent Fund stepped in, offering vital emotional wellbeing support that helped him gradually rebuild his life.

Andy joined the Fund’s Telephone Friendship Groups, which he described as a welcome weekly connection with other veterans. He said of the support: "When you haven’t got any companionship, it’s very good. It gives you something to look forward to and it makes a difference."

He has also been supported by the Fund’s Group Friendship Breaks, spending time away with other veterans, sharing stories, memories and taking part in fun activities together.

Andy has also benefitted from a mobility scooter provided by the Fund, which he said has been "a lifeline."

Now in a much stronger place mentally, Andy is entering a new, exciting chapter of his life. He said: "I’ve met someone. We met on our scooters, and we’re getting married next year. She works as a care worker. We’ve been together for four months and it’s changed my life."

Despite everything that’s happened, Andy remains proud of his RAF roots and grateful for the continued support he’s received. He explained: "The Fund and other service charities have all done their part to try and mend the mess I was in. It’s good to know the RAF Benevolent Fund is there whenever I need it. They do a really great job for veterans like me who’ve been through difficult times."