"The Fund were there after my life got turned upside down"

After losing her health, job, marriage and home in the space of just six weeks, Rachelle felt overwhelmed with emotions and was unsure of what the future held for her and her daughter. Thankfully, the Fund were there to help Rachelle navigate through such a turbulent time, providing financial assistance and a break at Parkdean Resorts during her time of need.

In 2022, Rachelle went through the most difficult year of her life. "My life fell apart in such a short space of time," explained Rachelle, adding: "I had to leave my marital home after my husband and I split up, and, due to a life-long disability following a surgery that went wrong, I had to be discharged from my job as a musician, where I played the trumpet in the RAF. It was such a challenging time."

The Fund were there throughout for Rachelle. "While I was still in the RAF, the Welfare Officer recommended getting in touch with the Fund after I was forced out of my home by my partner. I had to move into military accommodation but had no money to pay for the removal costs. The Fund helped cover the payments which was such a relief."

Rachelle then underwent a surgical procedure for a pre-existing condition which went wrong, and unexpectedly left her with a life-long disability, meaning she could no longer continue playing the trumpet in the RAF. "It all happened in such a short space of time. My marriage broke down, and then I had to leave my job.

"The RAF Benevolent Fund provided financial assistance towards a laptop, so I could find a new job and do some training. Thanks to the Fund’s support, I got a job soon after, working as a People Assistant in HR for a company."

Rachelle’s life was slowly but surely getting back on track, but the turbulent year had been difficult for her and her five-year-old daughter. "Our lives had been turned upside down – we needed a break from reality and some time away together. I reached out to the Fund while I was still serving and applied for a break at Parkdean’s Trecco Bay Resort in South Wales during October half-term.

"It was just what we needed. It was amazing to spend quality time together – we used all of the facilities including swimming, the playground and mini golf. My daughter especially loved the evening entertainment that was on every night. We also visited the local farm and the nearby beach."

Rachelle added: "It was wonderful to be able to escape reality from our life back home and spend some quality time together. My daughter loved the one-on-one time.

"The support I’ve received from the Fund has been amazing – it’s allowed me to get my life back on track. Eighteen months ago I never would have thought I’d be where I am now – I’m coming out the other side and I’m feeling much happier again."

Serving personnel can apply for serving breaks here and priority will be given to families with a welfare need.