How the RAF Benevolent Fund supported the RAF Family in 2023
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The RAF Benevolent Fund has released its 2023 Impact Report, highlighting how it has continued to support members of the RAF Family in 2023 through practical, emotional and financial assistance.
The Fund provided continuous reassurance, relief and support for the RAF Family in their time of need in 2023, helping over 42,000 members of the RAF Family. Over 27,800 serving personnel and their families were supported, as well as over 14,300 members of the RAF veteran community. A huge 97 per cent of beneficiaries said they were satisfied with the support they received.
Grants were provided to those who were unable to meet unexpected costs such as childcare or essential repairs, as well as those that needed support with mobility equipment, housing adaptations and housing solutions.
Over 15,000 people across the serving, family, bereaved and veteran communities benefitted from the Fund’s emotional wellbeing and mental health support. This included counselling for adults and young people, subscriptions to the Headspace mindfulness app and family and relationship support. Some of those supported were part of the Fund’s youth support programme, Airplay, which provided a safe space for 2,900 children to make friends, develop skills and take part in fun activities.
Air Vice-Marshal Chris Elliot, Controller of the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “During another difficult year, the RAF Benevolent Fund continued to act as the vital safety net for all those in the RAF Family, ready to respond to the unexpected challenges that can often suddenly appear in all our lives.
“For those that needed us in 2023, we responded by ensuring that our vital services and tailored solutions positively changed the outcomes for many, and we were proud to have helped over 42,259 people with their financial, practical, or emotional needs. Thank you for your support, helping us to be the Heart of the RAF Family – we couldn’t do this without you.”
The Fund supported RAF veteran Yvonne Jevons who felt like a prisoner in her own home after a spinal tumour left her with limited mobility. A new reclining armchair, bath aid, an outdoor walker, and a new driveway helped to transform Yvonne’s life, at home and outdoors. Yvonne was also supported through the Fund’s Listening and Counselling Service following her mother’s passing.
For Flight Lieutenant Graeme Ritchie and his wife Bianca, the Fund provided financial assistance to adapt their home to meet the needs of the complex needs of their 10-year-old daughter Lucia. Bianca said: “Our adapted home is life-changing for us all – the extent of the Fund’s support has been incredible.”