As we have reflected on the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain we have also celebrated all those who served before during and after World War Two.
We also reflect on the enduring support you, and people like you, have given and for that you have our heartfelt thanks. Below are some examples of what you have helped to achieve for members of the RAF Family.
Remembering all those who served
As we remember those who flew during the war, we also honour all those whose service was vital to winning the Battle of Britain and the wider conflict.
Dorothy, now 100, joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) at the outbreak of the Second World War and was determined to contribute to the war effort.
She recalls “Occasionally a pilot might have to ditch his plane. And it was our job to make sure he’d come back safely. That was one of the most exciting things.”
Dorothy is supported by the Fund’s Community Engagement Team, who regularly check in on her and help her stay connected. They arrange veterans’ lunches and meet-ups, giving her the chance to spend time with others who understand her experiences and sacrifices.
“Thanks to your support the pressure I felt has been lifted”
Thanks to your support, we were able to help RAF veteran Christine, who served for two years as an aviator. When she contacted the Fund. One phone call led to an array of support that made a huge difference to Christine and her family.
All of this came about because Christine called about help getting a replacement laptop after her husband Richard had spilt coffee on the family’s only one. She was worried about her son Peter being able to keep up with school work but a new one was soon on its way. Christine said: “All of the help was a massive relief and really took the pressure off. I can’t believe one phone call about something so small led to such life-changing support”.
Since then, she has been raising money to help others. “I realise how you, the supporters of the Fund have helped me and my family as so many others were helped after the Battle of Britain. It is important for me to also play my part in supporting a charity that has helped us so much.
Your support helps RAF children to thrive
Support for families has always been a priority. From financial support for bereaved families after the Battle of Britain to supporting children now. Our Airplay programme gives children a chance to socialise and connect with others who face the same challenges they do.
Natalie joined at eight years old and credits Airplay as being a huge part of her growth as part of the RAF Family, She said: “Airplay helped build my confidence. It helped me become more independent and learn how to work as part of a team. It gave me skills I still use today.”
Children of RAF families can face unique challenges, moving frequently, struggling to make long-term friends and parents being away, all of which can lead to anxiety.
She now works part-time for Airplay, “It’s a huge part of my life, and I love that I’m able to use my experiences in my role as a Youth Worker, supporting children, including people who are on a similar journey to the one I was on.
“It is important to me to give back to those who helped me.”
Toby joined the RAF in 2018 and, in his role with the RAF Police, was often the first responder to difficult scenes, This began to affect Toby’s mental health. He said: “I felt an intense loneliness and, even though I was around people, I felt very alone.”
Your donations meant Toby could receive support through our Listening and Counselling Service, a vital resource helping those who are living with mental health issues He said: “It became my release. It was great to get advice on how to handle things. I felt so much better and so much clearer afterwards.”
Since leaving the Air Force, Toby has run a half marathon to support the RAF Family. “I wanted to give back to a cause that has made a difference to veterans for so many years including after the Battle of Britain and before. Like many others the Fund has made me feel like I never have to deal with anything alone and I want to help others feel the same."
Luke benefits from your support
You may remember Luke from our last newsletter and how your support helped him to adapt to life after a bike accident left him paralysed. He explained how more recently he has been helped not just practically but emotionally.
“I met Lisa, a Community Engagement Worker at the Fund, at a veteran event and we got chatting. She helped arrange some counselling for me following family bereavements, and she also suggested attending a local veteran meet-up. It has helped me connect with others similar to me, and we meet up regularly.”
Luke has also benefitted from a recent break in Shropshire facilitated by the Fund’s Disabled Holiday Trust “I went with my partner, the kids and the dog. It was lovely to have a break, and the accommodation was fully adapted.”
“I’ve now decided to become an ambassador for the Fund, so I can spread the word about how my life has been enriched in so many ways – it’s reassuring to know the support will always be there.”
