Other organisations that can help
In addition to the support provided by the RAF Benevolent Fund, there is a wealth of advice and support available to the RAF Family.
The information given below is not an exhaustive list but a good starting point, and you can click on the links to obtain further information.
Other Service charities
Alexander Duckham Memorial Schools Trust – Provides financial assistance in the education of children of members, and former members, of the RAF.
BLESMA – Provides grants to ease the effects of disability for those who have lost limbs, the use of limbs, or eyesight during Service.
Blind Veterans UK– Support offered for blind and visually impaired ex-Servicemen and women with the provision of financial aid, nursing and residential care.
Combat Stress – Charity that helps ex-Service personnel suffering from psychological injuries and mental health problems.
Help for Heroes – Help for Heroes offers support to those who have suffered life-changing injuries and illnesses while serving in HM Armed Forces.
Falklands Veterans Foundation – The Falklands Veterans Foundation (FVF) is the first UK based charity for Falklands Veterans and their Families and is committed to providing a network of support both financially and through support work for all Veterans and their Families.
The Officers Association / OA Scotland – Provides financial assistance to former officers and their dependents with a range of welfare needs.
The Royal British Legion / Poppy Scotland – The Royal British Legion and Poppy Scotland provide help and welfare to the serving and ex-Service community and their families.
RAF Community Support – Information and communication to support the RAF community.
RAF Widows' Association – Provides help and information to men and women who have lost their spouse or partner whilst serving in the RAF at the time of their death or who died within two years of leaving the RAF.
RAF Families Federation – This organisation provides confidential advice and support, acting as an independent voice for all Serving RAF personnel and families. They help with on issues and challenges to do with life in the RAF and at home, wherever they are based in the world.
Royal Air Forces Association – The RAF Association is a membership organisation of current and past members of the RAF and those with an interest in aviation. It supports serving and retired members of the RAF and their dependants, from WWII veterans to those involved in the Falklands, Bosnia and the Gulf. Comradeship is provided through its 500+ branches and its network of Honorary Welfare Officers provide advice and support to those in need.
SSAFA Forces Help – The national charity helping serving and ex-Service men, women and their families, in need. The range of services SSAFA Forces Help provides include housing, financial aid and advice, friendship visits and professional health care and social work services.
Veterans Aid – Provides assistance to veterans in crisis with a range of issues, including housing, addiction, and access to training and education.
Veterans Assist Scotland – An online advice portal for veterans services in Scotland.
Veterans UK – This is the official government agency for veterans. It provides advice on issues including pensions, compensation, medals, service records and welfare related issues.
Further advice and advocacy support
Armed Services Advice Project (ASAP) – ASAP provides dedicated information, advice and support to members of the Armed Forces Community in Scotland.
Citizens Advice – Your local Citizens Advice Bureau can provide advice and advocacy on a wide range of issues including but not limited to debt, employment law, housing and disability rights.
Shelter – Provides practical advice and support on homelessness and housing related issues.
StepChange – Provides free expert advice on dealing with debt as well as advice and practical tips to help you avoid debt, save money and budget.