Warblings issue 2 2019

SECOND ISSUE 2019

SBMC LAUNCH IN SCOTLAND First Minister opens Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company p.4–5

CENTENARY VILLAGE EVENT

In conversation with General Sir Gordon Messenger event in London p.6–7

BRITAIN’S BRAVEST MILITARY CHALLENGE

Launch of our frst mass participation event p.10–11

GET IN TOUCH WARBLINGS MAGAZINE RBLI

Hall Road

Aylesford ME20 7NL

WELCOME

One hundred years ago this year, a group of like-minded individuals set about on a plan to create a community in which veterans of the First World War were offered

01622 795900

marketing@rbli.co.uk rbli.co.uk

ADVERTISING marketing@rbli.co.uk

a place to rehabilitate, a place to retrain and, ultimately, a place to call home. That village, and the adjoining factory, based at Aylesford’s Preston Hall became what I

FUNDRAISE FOR US

A century on, I am in awe of the exponential progress this charity has made since

Contact fundraising@rbli.co.uk

am immensely proud to head today: Royal British Legion Industries.

those early dreams were first put in place and now, in our centenary year, thanks

Mon to Fri 9am-5:30pm

to phenomenal support from across public and private sectors, the general public, the military community, and our committed volunteers, we have built to a great crescendo.

In this last 6 months alone, we have seen the First Minister for Scotland officially open our latest venture into the social enterprise space, we have been awarded the title of Best Large Charity in Kent and we have seen the announcement of

VOLUNTEER FOR US Contact volunteer@rbli.co.uk Mon to Fri 9am-5:30pm

a national fitness challenge to be held this year under the watchful eye of TV adventurer Bear Grylls. Of course, these events and awards are exciting, and highlight the tremendous progress made by the charity in its 100th year, but we must also remember its ultimate purpose - to raise vital funds so that we

can continue our work supporting veterans and disabled people across the UK;

allowing us to provide the solid grounding on which our beneficiaries can have the

PARTNER WITH US Contact fundraising@rbli.co.uk Mon to Fri 9am-5:30pm

tools to change their own lives and regain their independence.

I am very pleased that we are also building ever stronger relationships with

BECOME A FRIEND OF RBLI

charity.

Contact enquiries@rbli.co.uk

commercial organisations, both through our trading social enterprises, and as a Though we have reached a peak and received some incredibly generous donations for our Centenary Village development - with thanks to Barratt Developments,

Annington and many more - we do not plan on stopping here. This year is one of

building: building a basis for a further century of care for our beneficiaries through our wide range of services.

So, if you want, please do sign up for one of our centenary events and help us

raise the funds we need to complete our Centenary Village and leave an enduring provision for veterans and those in need of ongoing care and support due to

disability. Every contribution means a great deal to our teams and beneficiaries, and to me.

Steve Sherry CMG OBE Chief Executive

Mon to Fri 9am-5:30pm

CONTENTS

4

SBMC LAUNCH EVENT

4

RBLI CENTENARY VILLAGE EVENT

6

BMF WITH BEAR GRYLLS

10

BRITAIN’S BRAVEST COASTER

12

AN EXTRAORDINARY 100TH YEAR

14

VISITORS

15

RBLI’S NEW CARE FACILITY

16

LIFEWORKS SUPPORTING LIVES

18

IMPROVING NATIONAL WORKPLACE INCLUSION

20

RBLI PRAISED FORHELPING PEOPLE

WITH DISABILITIES TO STAY IN WORK 22 THANK YOU TO RBLI’S VOLUNTEERS 24 WILL’S WEEK

26

RBLI STAFF AWARDS

28

THANKING OUR SUPPORTERS

30

RBLI CENTENARY EVENTS

31

RBLI 100 YEARS 3

SCOTLAND’S BRAVEST WELCOME FIRST MINISTER AT OFFICIAL OPENING

RBLI’s Scottish social enterprise is officially opened with praise for factory’s fervent support of injured veterans in Scotland You know you’ve created something

opportunities to help them overcome

able to access the best possible care

comes to open it. This year RBLI was

independence. They manufacture a

no one should suffer disadvantage as

special when the leader of a country honoured to have The First Minister

of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, officially

open RBLI’s latest venture in the social enterprise space, Scotland’s Bravest

Manufacturing Company (SBMC). The

social enterprise was established after the success of RBLI’s primary social

enterprise situated in Kent, Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company

(BBMC). Building on the commercial

success of BBMC, the Scottish based enterprise provides Armed Forces

veterans with flexible employment 4 RBLI 100 YEARS

a difficult transition, retrain and regain variety of products including signage

for the transportation industry, bespoke engineering, and a printing and mailing service.

Speaking at the event, Ms Sturgeon said: “The activities of Scotland’s

Bravest Manufacturing Company are

invaluable. I congratulate them on their on-going work that is supporting so

and support. We are adamant that

a result of their service. “We greatly appreciate the work carried out

with, and on behalf of, veterans by

organisations such as Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company. It really

brings home Scotland’s commitment to supporting our Armed Forces

community during the transition into civilian life and beyond.”

many ex-service personnel and their

The First Minister also met with

committed to ensuring that the Armed

was medically discharged from the RAF

families. “The Scottish Government is Forces and Veterans community are

veterans including William Baillie, who in 2000 after an almost decade-long

career. Due to the onset of his illness

William’s experience is not unique.

our mission to provide fully supported,

had not worked until finding Scotland’s

transition well, for those whose journey

country’s veterans and help them regain

and further physical problems, William Bravest Manufacturing Company.

William said: “You can tell what is

happening here at SBMC is incredibly unique and exciting – and that’s

evident by the First Minister kindly

taking the time to open the factory. “I am incredibly thankful to have come

across Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company. I’m seeing veterans from a

Whilst the majority of veterans do

both in and after the forces has not been smooth, the transition can hit

hard. SBMC offers an original solution

to help veterans in Scotland - an holistic method of support focused on work

but combined with welfare and other help which RBLI is able to deliver in partnership with Scottish veterans’ charity, Erskine.

range of backgrounds – all of whom are

Michelle Ferguson, Director of SBMC,

come here and find a totally new lease

support from across the Scottish

facing their own unique challenges – of life.”

flexible working opportunities to our independence. “So we are delighted

the First Minister was able to perform

our official opening and see first-hand

the work we are doing here to provide a genuine lifeline to vulnerable veterans.

It was a pleasure to welcome her and

I know the team here has taken great encouragement from her invaluable support.”

said: “We have enjoyed magnificent

Government since our foundation in

NEW LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT CREATING BRIGHTER FUTURES Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company is setting

support they’re providing to our veterans community,

established Learning and Development Department.

employment at SBMC has benefited their lives.

injured veterans up for the future through its newly-

and to hear directly from veterans themselves on how

The social enterprise will now also provide tailored welfare

“The coupling of the employment training available at

related disabilities such as PTSD and life-changing physical

truly holistic approach to veterans in need of support – it

assistance to veteran employees, aiding with serviceinjuries.

Headed by trained veterans welfare development

SBMC, with the new welfare programme available offers a will have a really positive impact on the lives of the exservicemen and women working there.”

manager, former Royal Engineer Robert Lappin, the

One veteran benefiting from the new service is triple

Lottery Community Fund (Scotland) and Poppy Scotland.

compete at the UK – Israel Veterans Games after joining

department was set up with funding from the National Veterans Minister Graeme Dey, who visited SBMC in

amputee Gary Jamieson, who has been selected to the factory following its opening last year.

February, said: “I’m very pleased to see first-hand the RBLI 100 YEARS 5

IN CONVERSATION WITH GENERAL SIR GORDON MESSENGER Following the success of the ‘In

veterans, now residents on RBLI’s

year, RBLI hosted a number of high-

about how our charity had supported

conversation with Lord King’ event last profile individuals as they flocked to

hear from the charity’s Centenary Village campaign patron General Sir Gordon Messenger. The ‘In conversation’

event held in London’s Sea Container’s building saw 50 guests attend to hear

of the Vice Chief of Staff’s experiences during his time in the Armed Forces as well as his thoughts on current military and political situations.

The event also shone the spotlight on those whose military service ended many years ago however, as three 6 RBLI 100 YEARS

village, told their stories and spoke

them in times of need. Having donned their military attire, Paul Landamore,

Peter Topley and George Bradford, who reside at RBLI’s assisted living scheme

Queen Elizabeth Court, were excellent

ambassadors and really highlighted the extensive support they had received during their time on the village.

Former Royal Marine George said:

“There is a good community spirit in the village and always someone to turn to

for help. I could not wish for anywhere

I would rather be than QEC with Royal

British Legion Industries to spend the remainder of my life.

“We three asked our nearest and

dearest to say in one word how they felt about their father/ grandfather

being in the RBLI Community – Peter’s granddaughter said he is happy –

Paul’s daughter said he is alive and my daughter said he is safe.”

General Sir Gordon Messenger said: “I am very conscious that our veterans, particularly from recent operations,

many of whom were young when they experienced life-changing injuries will

need our support for decades to come.

We need to be there for them.”

ANNINGTON BACKING Britain’s most vulnerable and

through new specially-adapted homes,

disadvantaged veterans both now, and

offered a lifeline after Royal British

and employability services.

to help RBLI make this happen, and

disadvantaged veterans have been Legion Industries received a £250,000 vote of confidence from Annington

Homes. The housing provider, who also attended the event with Sir Gordon

Messenger, donated in order to help RBLI deliver a pioneering welfare

project providing homes, mental health and employability support. RBLI’s ambitious new Centenary Village

integrated nursing care, mental health

RBLI Helen Liddell, Chair of Annington

said: “We have a long history providing homes for military communities and

make this financial contribution to the

provision of homes and care for another century.”

recognise the hugely important

Steve Sherry said: “Annington, from

vulnerable and disadvantaged veterans,

needs of the military community and

work that RBLI delivers for the most and the positive inter generational community they have created.

development will support hundreds

“This exciting and ambitious

their families for decades to come

commitment for the most

of injured ex-service personnel and

long in to the future. We are delighted

development is a real practical

top to bottom, understands the unique immediately recognised that our holistic approach is a highly effective way

to provide support to veterans with multiple needs and challenges.”

RBLI 100 YEARS 7

Senior Kent executives from Barratt Developments joined RBLI’s chief executive Steve Sherry at the charity’s annual staff awards, after volunteering their morning to renovate the garden of an RBLI home for an incoming veteran and his family

A SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP...

RBLI’s on-going relationship with Barratt Developments brings work for injured veterans and a new tranquil space Today, our society is more aware and

into a trading one, as the team at

together too.”

issues such as disability employment

Company (BBMC) has been

KENT EXECS VOLUNTEER ON THE RBLI VILLAGE

more demanding for solutions to social than ever before. This means that there is not only greater demand for charities such as RBLI to continue providing

crucial support, but also for public and private sector companies to be more

socially aware and provide support for

charitable organisations as well as more direct social value through their own working policies.

Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing

commissioned to produce commercial signage for the housing developer.

Barratt Developments has ordered the production of a variety of signage for its Staplehurst site, run by subsidiary

David Wilson Homes. Twelve housing

site signs have been produced in what is a new move for the BBMC factory, which has previously specialised in

BBMC PRODUCING SIGNS FOR BARRATTS

road and rail signs. A number of BBMC

RBLI were extremely grateful and

Steve Hammond, who heads up the

proud to receive a £750,000 donation from Barratt Developments. Their

dedication and commitment to the

Armed Forces and RBLI’s projects to

supporting them, are enabling RBLI’s visionary £14m Centenary Village to come to life.

Now, the relationship has expanded 8 RBLI 100 YEARS

employees are involved in the project

along the sign production line including home building sign department having previously been based in the metal shop.

David Thomas, chief executive of

Barratt Developments PLC, said: “We

are really proud to have a partnership

with RBLI which spans not only financial support, but practical ways of working

Seven senior Kent executives from

the UK’s largest housebuilder Barratt Developments spent a day helping

restore a bungalow owned by RBLI so it can be used as a temporary home

for a family in need during the charity’s centenary year.

Paul Kitchingman, Managing Director Barratt Homes Kent, said: “We are

really pleased that our efforts to clear

the grounds play even just a small role

in helping RBLI provide short-term, safe and secure accommodation for a family in need.

“RBLI do fantastic work to support

veterans from across the county, and

with their upcoming Centenary Village

development, we’re happy to help out in any way we can.”

NEW DEMENTIA GARDEN FOR RBLI’S CARE FACILITY Dementia is, without question, one of the most imposing problems

of modern times. We are immensely proud to say that our flourishing relationship with Barratt Developments, and their commitment to

tackling some of society’s most pressing problems, has seen our charity play a further role in challenging this hugely important issue.

A dementia friendly garden is to be built on Royal British Legion Industries’ village in line with the charity’s centenary year after

recent graduates at the country’s biggest home builder, Barratt Developments, were successful in a Dragons’ Den style pitch.

The new £20,000 garden will be placed alongside RBLI’s 50 bed care

home Gavin Astor House, and will feature raised flowerbeds to ensure the garden is wheelchair accessible.

The garden will be created within a courtyard designed specifically for residents facing challenges due to dementia - the increase of which

is one of the biggest social issues of our time. Builders and designers at Barratt Developments will be working with dementia specialists to

ensure the courtyard incorporates the latest expert advice on how best to layout a dementia garden.

Gardening has many benefits for someone with dementia - it

helps them maintain physical activity, cognitive function and social

interaction, ensuring they feel valued and helpful. Gardening also helps

stimulate all the senses, from smelling the flowers to hearing the sound of birds and insects. The calmness and tranquillity of the surroundings in RBLI’s garden will be available for all those resident in their care facilities.

The plans were given the green light by the charity’s senior

management when 12 recent Barratt graduates pitched the plan which sees them responsible for all aspects of the project including planning, securing funding and organising construction.

David Thomas, chief executive of Barratt Developments plc, said: “We are really proud to have a partnership with RBLI which spans not only financial support, but practical ways of working together too. The

dementia garden is a great example of this. It will give our talented graduates invaluable experience whilst at the same time delivering a £20,000 dementia garden that will become much loved by RBLI residents and families.”

Steve Sherry CMG OBE, Chief Executive of Royal British Legion

Industries, said: “Barratt Developments’ Graduate Programme offers a phenomenal scheme to university leavers, so we are incredibly

proud to have joined forces with them once again. It is great to play

such an active role in developing their latest draft of talented, young

individuals – all while having a positive impact on the lives of our village residents.

“Without doubt the dementia garden will be a crucial place of

relaxation and calm for our residents and their families at a time when things can unfortunately too often be chaotic.”

Barratt Developments’ graduate programme employs up to 25 graduates every year. It provide participants with learning and

development opportunities which focus on an individual’s leadership skills as well, as helping them gain an overall perspective of the

business. Graduates also benefit from coaching and mentoring sessions from senior leaders within the business.

RBLI 100 YEARS 9

BEAR GRYLLS’ GRUELLING CHALLENGE 28 SEPT 2019 RBLI’s centenary year celebrates the charity’s growth and the

incredible support it provides to veterans and disabled people across the UK. So it is only right that its fundraising events

are also bigger and better than ever before. Britain’s Bravest Military Challenge, a mass participation event happening

across the UK later this year, was launched in May by RBLI

staff and volunteers in a mass workout at our charity’s HQ. Run in collaboration with Be Military Fit (BMF) - an outdoor fitness company headed by TV adventurer Bear Grylls, the

event will see participants put to the ultimate military fitness test in 20 locations on Saturday, 28th September.

BMF has created the most authentic military experience 10 RBLI 100 YEARS

possible, with the toughest, military training drills, by working closely with military leaders. This has resulted in the highest level of physical and mental challenge.

RBLI is aiming to recruit 100 participants at each location,

each targeted with raising £100 towards a total of £200,000

for the charity’s Centenary Appeal. The challenges are taking place in parks such as Hyde Park in London, Heaton Park in Manchester, and Inverleith Park in Edinburgh.

Ivan Rowlatt, Operations Director at Be Military Fit said: “Be Military Fit (BMF) is very proud to announce its partnership with the RBLI. This is a superb charity, whose forward

thinking approach and core values align perfectly with our

organisation. “Not only are we both committed to assisting

veterans in training and employment but also in keeping them both physically and mentally active. This partnership has the ability to deliver all of the above but will also increase the reach and access to broader cohort of military veterans.”

MILITARY CHALLENGE

FALKIRK GLASGOW

EDINBURGH

YORK

LIST OF LOCATIONS:

LEEDS

BIRMINGHAM – CANNON HILL PARK BIRMINGHAM – SUTTON COLDFIELD BRISTOL – CLIFTON DOWNS CARDIFF – PONTCANNA FIELDS EDINBURGH – INVERLEITH PARK FALKIRK – CALLENDAR PARK GUILDFORD – STOKE PARK GLASGOW – ROUKEN GLEN LEEDS – ROUNDHAY PARK LIVERPOOL – SEFTON PARK LONDON – BATTERSEA PARK LONDON – CLAPHAM COMMON LONDON – FINSBURY PARK LONDON – HAMPSTEAD HEATH LONDON – HYDE PARK LONDON – RICHMOND PARK MAIDSTONE – MOTE PARK MANCHESTER – HEATON PARK MANCHESTER – SALE WATER PARK YORK – RAWCLIFFE COUNTRY PARK

MANCHESTER LIVERPOOL

BIRMINGHAM

CARDIFF BRISTOL

LONDON GUILDFORD MAIDSTONE

28TH SEPTEMBER 2019 Book your place at: britains-bravest.eventbrite.com RBLI 100 YEARS 11

BRITAIN’S BRAVEST COASTER RBLI’s social enterprise Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company joins forces with Morrisons in producing first supermarket product

As RBLI and its social enterprise moves forward into their

100th year, we are immensely proud to have taken our first

step in the supermarket retail space with a bespoke product now rolled out across the country.

A total of 140 Morrisons stores from all four corners of the

country stocked on their shelves coasters made by a team of veterans in Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company.

They are now on sale in the supermarkets across England, Scotland and Wales, with all profits going to support

wounded, injured and sick ex-servicemen and women.

The coasters, which come in packs of four at £4 each, feature the emblem of the factory where veterans produce road and rail signage, wooden products such as pallets, and provide

printing and mailing services. This latest venture however is the veterans’ first step into the supermarket retail space in celebration of RBLI’s centenary year.

BBMC is a not-for-profit enterprise which employs more than 100 people – 70% of whom are veterans, have a disability, or both. The factory reinvests its entire surplus to offer greater employment opportunities to its beneficiaries.

RBLI was established in 1919 to provide support to sick

and wounded troops returning from the front lines of the

First World War. One hundred years on the charity supports 12 RBLI 100 YEARS

injured veterans and people with disabilities by providing employment and homes on their Kent village.

This year, the charity launched a £14 million Centenary Village appeal will see the development of 22 apartments, each

designed to be fully accessible and house single veterans in

urgent need, alongside 16 new family homes, and a further 24 assisted-living apartments. At the heart of the development will be a state of the art community centre with accessible

gym. It will sit alongside the existing village, care homes and manufacturing facility in Kent.

The coaster project comes after the charitable arm of the

supermarket chain, the Morrisons Foundation, supported

RBLI in the delivery of their national employment course for veterans, LifeWorks, before then donating almost £300,000 towards specially-adapted apartments for injured veterans.

David Potts, Morrisons CEO, said: “Royal British Legion

Industries has 100 years’ experience of providing crucial

employment and welfare support to Britain’s most vulnerable veterans, so we are very proud to be selling their products in our stores. To know the proceeds will help support

generations of veterans for many years ahead means a lot

to the colleagues in our stores which are stocking these very special coasters.”

A NEW DIRECTOR FOR BRITAIN’S BRAVEST The UK manufacturing base has been

industry, as well as fulfilment and

In fact, a study by the GMB Union

“Having recently invested substantially

sector has shrunk by almost 600,000

products continue to lead within their

in decline since the 1970s.

found that Britain’s manufacturing jobs in little more than a decade,

leaving fewer than 3 million employed within the sector.

This only goes to further showcase

the tremendous ability and ingenuity of the injured veterans and people

printing & mailing services.

in new technology, ensuring that our respective markets, it is crucial that

we continue to advance and innovate providing an environment where our

team have the chance to up-skill, and learn techniques which will fair them well

with disabilities working at RBLI’s

“It appears contrary to say that to

Manufacturing Company - a factory

opportunities for those in society

social enterprise Britain’s Bravest which, despite sector decline,

celebrates its 100th year in 2019.

Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing

Company celebrated an almost

£7million turnover in the last financial year, with a diverse product line, and an even more diverse workforce.

And as the factory stormed into its

centennial year, it welcomed a new

leader in commercial and retail expert Kate Bull.

“It is a privilege to take on the

role of heading Britain’s Bravest

Manufacturing Company in this most important of years,” said Kate.

“What was evident immediately, was the careful balance of the enterprise between providing truly industry-

leading products, whilst also offering employment opportunities to some

of society’s most unfairly overlooked individuals.

“It is a truly commercially sustainable and socially thriving enterprise.”

Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing

Company has a vast array of products,

Name: Kate Bull Role: Director of Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company

introduce technology is to broaden who face challenges with regards to

employment. One would assume that new machinery would simply replace

those for whom working is everything: a purpose, a routine, comradeship.

“However, what we will do in

advancing our machinery is actually

provide greater opportunities to our

“

increases our output, meaning that

IT IS A TRULY COMMERCIALLY SUSTAINABLE AND SOCIALLY THRIVING ENTERPRISE

work manually - such as the team of

....

beneficiary groups - this is done in two ways.

“Investing in advanced machinery

we are able to expand the teams who Gurkhas in our signs department who

handcraft signs, applying the finishing vinyl.

“While equally, there are veterans

whom, due to injury, are unable to carry out manual tasks, however,

we can offer them rewarding and

sustainable working opportunities working on the new machinery.

“Everything we do here is genuinely

WE GIVE PEOPLE THE TOOLS TO CHANGE THEIR OWN LIVES.

“

geared to improving the lives of our beneficiaries.”

requiring varying degrees of skill and

training, such as wooden products such as pallets, signage for the transport

RBLI 100 YEARS 13

RECORD-BREAKING GRANDADS Two former paratroopers raised money for RBLI as they broke a world record by becoming the

RBLI’S 2019 CENTENARY RIDE

Injured veterans, six former Gurkhas and two world record breaking grandads were amongst 100 cyclists who set off on a 150-mile cycle ride through the battlefields of the First World War to raise crucial funds for us in this most

oldest pair to row any ocean.

Neil Young and Peter Ketley, who have a

combined age of 123, completed the Talisker

Whisky Atlantic Challenge, rowing 3000 nautical miles across the great ocean in just 63 days and 22 minutes earlier this year.

This amazing duo had never rowed before they embarked on training for this challenge!

important of years.

The ride was launched by Sevenoaks MP Sir Michael Fallon, and saw the group saddle up at the charity’s Aylesford village before riding through

France to arrive at Belgium’s iconic Menin Gate war memorial for the playing of the last post.

Every penny raised by the ride went directly to supporting vulnerable veterans through RBLI projects such as the Centenary Village.

Sir Michael Fallon said: “It was a real privilege to launch the RBLI Centenary Ride in this most important year for this great charity.

“RBLI’s Centenary Village is a campaign of national significance. It will truly become a beacon of veteran welfare for

ex-servicemen and women from all four corners of the UK. I wholeheartedly support the campaign.”

14 RBLI 100 YEARS

£54k

raised from the Centenary Cycle Ride

3,000

miles rowed by the Grandads

259

fundraisers took part in at least one RBLI challenge

VISITORS TO RBLI’S VILLAGE

Thank you to those who have visited RBLI so far in our centenary year

Lieutenant General Urch CBE June saw a visit from Lt Gen Tyrone Urch CBE, Commander

opportunity whilst touring to speak to ex-Queen’s Gurkha

received a tour of the RBLI village, viewing the charity’s

Company team, and ex-sappers currently living in RBLI’s

Home Command, British Army. The Lieutenant General housing for veterans, including new apartment

developments, and the social enterprise factory in

Aylesford. As a Royal Engineer by trade, he took the

Engineer Yam from the Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing

Mountbatten Pavilion. It was a honour for RBLI to receive this visit in their centenary year.

The Rt Hon. the Earl Howe, Minister of State for Defence

Tarmac

In May we were delighted to welcome

visit from Tarmac, the UK’s leading

Earl Howe, the Minister of State for Defence and Deputy Leader of the

House of Lords to visit RBLI. The Earl, who has been a Minister of State for Defence since 2015, toured RBLI’s

village, including the Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company factory. He spoke to veterans across the village about their experiences.

The last 6 months has also seen a

sustainable building materials group.

Stuart Wykes, Director of Land and Natural Resources, who viewed

RBLI’s 70 acre site, said “I think you have something quite special and

very scaleable”, referring to RBLI’s

village model which includes housing, employment, and welfare support.

Chelsea FC Foundation

In January RBLI was very excited and

proud to host members of the Chelsea

FC Foundation. Visiting to find out more about RBLI and the work it does to

help people, including veterans, out of

unemployment, the team learned about RBLI’s incredible LifeWorks courses.

LifeWorks is RBLI’s flagship employment course for veterans, which helps over 80% into work/training in just 12 months.

RBLI 100 YEARS 15

COMBATTING THE CARE CRISIS RBLI’s new luxury care home opens to help combat national care crisis The Office of National Statistics reports

RBLI has been providing care since it

on average 16.5 years of their life

social care crisis is one of the biggest

that men in the UK can expect to live

with a disability. For women the figure increases - they are liable to spend

nearly 21 years with a disability or health condition. Whilst not all of these years will necessarily be spent towards the

end of life, there is no doubt that life

expectancy has risen more quickly than healthy life expectancy. For the last

10 years, figures show that while life

expectancy is still gradually increasing across the UK, the years of life gained

were spent in less favourable states of health.

However, we are also seeing that

improvements in at-home care and assistive technologies are meaning

challenges the charity has faced in the

last 100 years. However, RBLI has risen

up to meet new demands, and is proud to announce that this July the charity is

to open a new care facility in Aylesford, Kent. The new care facility, features 15 single, intermediate care suites which

offer 24 hour care to residents. It also includes a day-care centre which will run activities for those in the local

community in need of part-time care and support. The spacious rooms,

alongside flexible living spaces, light and airy rooms and modern en-suite

facilities offer a home away from home for new residents.

people are able to stay at home longer

The home welcomed the first residents

despite disabilities or health conditions.

hero John Riggs.

and live happier, more independent lives These factors combined put increasing pressure on the social care sector - the

number of people in need of social care

will continue to rise, but their needs will change over time.

16 RBLI 100 YEARS

was established in 1919, but today’s

in late August including World War II John is one of the few remaining

Chindits - a special operation taskforce providing support to British India against Japanese invasion.

D-DAY: RECONGISING 75 YEARS Last year the country came together to commemorate the end of World War One, and 2019 has seen another poignant time

remembered. 75 years ago on June 6th 1944, allied forces landed on

Normandy beaches in a move which many see as the beginning of the end of World War Two, which had seen millions killed and injured over the past five years.

A D-Day veteran living in RBLI’s Queen Elizabeth Court shared the

story of his heroism as the country recognised the 75th anniversary of

the WWII operation. Former Sergeant Charles Boyer arrived on Sword Beach at around midday on that momentous day. “We were told

we’d be in Caen by the evening. It took us six weeks,” said Charles.

“Most of the time we would dig in trenches. We would find ourselves in water – sleeping in mud and water. I was proud to be there – it changed my life.”

Charles, who is now 93 years old, moved into QEC on the RBLI Village in 2018, following the loss of his wife, after she had battled dementia for several years. They met in 1946, whilst she was serving in the Auxiliary Territorial Service and Charles was in the Infantry. They

married the following year. Later, he decided to join the military police after sustaining an injury in Holland, becoming their youngest ever sergeant. While serving in the Military Police, Charles assisted the

hangman Albert Pierrepoint in the Nuremberg trials. In 1966 Charles left the forces. He worked within the Civil Service as a Resettlement

Officer for disabled people from 1967 until retirement in 1987. During these 20 years, Charles would travel once a week to the RBLI Village in Aylesford - where half a century later he would live – helping

disabled people find work in the on-site social enterprise, now known as Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Co. Charles joined the infantry in

December 1942, aged 16 – he lied about his age in order to join the

military early. For his heroics in Normandy, he was awarded the Legion d’Honneur.

GAVIN ASTOR HOUSE RESIDENTS ATTEND ROYAL GARDEN PARTY Fifty supporters and beneficiaries of RBLI, including residents of

Gavin Astor House care home, graced the gardens of Buckingham Palace for a garden party organised by the Not Forgotten

Association. Each year, the NFA organises the event at the royal

residence for thousands of ex-servicemen and women from across the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force,

Gavin Astor House residents including ex-servicemen enjoyed tea and cake with other guests alongside first cousin of the

Queen, Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester and celebrities including Peter Andre.

RBLI 100 YEARS 17

LIFEWORKS LAUNCHES IN HULL GREENWICH HOSPITAL BACKING SEES RBLI’S LIFEWORKS EXPAND Hull’s Guildhall was packed to the rafters in May as RBLI’s LifeWorks course came to the city for the first time thanks to the backing of Greenwich Hospital.

The launch saw past delegates of the

programme give heartfelt speeches on how LifeWorks had helped them move forwards from challenges they faced after leaving the forces.

Disabled veteran Russ Kirby, of

neighbouring Barton-upon-Humber, left the Armed Forces after fewer than five

years of service when a serious accident left him with a paralysed left arm. The

mounting people’s personal treasured items, RussMountsStuff.

“

Veterans in Russ’s local area are now

2018 for six months before he found out

“

EX-SERVICEMAN RUSS

about RBLI’s award-winning programme.

able to get support closer to home for

in the five-day course which supports

Greenwich Hospital during the charity’s

He travelled to Sheffield to take part

veterans with CV writing, job hunting

and the transition to the civilian world.

The programme gave Russ the skills and confidence to set up his own business 18 RBLI 100 YEARS

the first time, thanks to backing from centenary year.

A 2014 survey found that British

veterans are more than twice as likely to be unemployed as their civilian counterparts.

I WOULD ENCOURAGE ANY VETERAN WHO CAN’T FIND THEIR WAY IN THE WORLD OF WORK TO REACH OUT FOR HELP FROM LIFEWORKS

58-year-old found himself unemployed in

should they be struggling for work.

This backing, RBLI says, will provide

crucial support to the 32,000 veterans in the East Riding area of Yorkshire

Speaking at the launch, Russ said: “This

programme has quite honestly been a

lifeline to me. I was in a really low place and, being an ex-serviceman, you just

don’t think there’s anyone out there who can help you. I’m incredibly pleased to say LifeWorks has now come to Hull. I

would encourage any veteran who feels

like they can’t find their way in the world of work to reach out for help from the LifeWorks team.”

Hugh Player, Director of Greenwich

Hospital, said: “Hull is a city proudly steeped in military tradition. We are

incredibly proud to have joined forces

with RBLI to be able to support veterans in search of employment in this city.”

KEY FACTS

Veterans are twice as likely to be unemployed as their civilian counterparts

83

Percent of veterans who attend LifeWorks who move into work/ training within 1 year

We focus on realistic goals and confidence as well as employability skills

VETERANS IN MERSEYSIDE TO GET MORE BACK-TO-WORK SUPPORT

Coaching groups delivered in 2018/19

62

Seven Merseyside-based veterans now have high hopes for future

employment after a LifeWorks course was held in Liverpool thanks

to the Veterans’ Foundation. The Veterans’ Foundation, raises funds

through a unique Veterans’ Lottery, which offers monthly cash prizes

Over 1,200 veterans

of up to £5,000.

have been helped

by LifeWorks since it

The programme’s end was marked presenting the attendees

began in 2011

with a bespoke sign thanking the Veterans’ Foundation for their contribution. The Veterans’ Foundation said: “The Veterans

Foundation, with the benefit of funding largely through The Veterans Lottery, has supported over 100 projects since its inception in

2016, with over £1million in grants. VF’s funding has delivered

major positive impacts on the lives of men and women, and their dependants, who are facing difficulties after leaving the British

armed forces to return to the civilian world. “VF has a high regard for RBLI, who have developed a wealth of experience over the

past one hundred years and the LifeWorks programme is a prime

example of the great work military charities can do provide to fresh

opportunities to former servicemen and women who are in dire need of support.”

Garrath Williams, Head of RBLI’s LifeWorks Programme, said:

“Without employment, the lives of veterans can too often spiral

downwards, resulting in a loss of independence, financial difficulties

and drug and alcohol abuse - this is simply unacceptable. “However, now, with the generous support of the Veterans Foundation, we

have been able to provide crucial employability skills to ex-service personnel in Liverpool.”

Countries have been reached by our team delivering support to spouses & partners

“

11

LIFEWORKS IS A PRIME EXAMPLE OF THE GREAT WORK MILITARY CHARITIES CAN DO ....

“

RBLI 100 YEARS 19

IMPROVING NATIONAL WORKPLACE INCLUSION There are nearly 6 million people of working age in the

UK who have a disability. Yet despite having a society that is getting much more inclusive in many ways, there still

remains a shocking gap in the figures of disabled people in employment. In September 2015, as part of their focus on

the disability employment gap, the government found that

whilst approximately 81% of people without a disability were in employment, this figure fell to an embarrassing 46% for

disabled people. At the time RBLI gave evidence to the Work and Pensions Committee to help suggest ways to overcome

this, and now, we are putting this into action with a project to improve workplace inclusion.

Businesses looking for support in employing or helping people in work with disability and health conditions can now turn to RBLI, a charity with 100 years of experience in helping those facing such challenges in the workplace. Through

our Employment Solutions division, we are now making our

expertise available to companies across the UK with a range

of services on offer including workplace assessments, training for diversity and disability in the workplace, support for staff and managers with education around disability or health

issues, and supporting colleagues who experiencing workplace barriers or issues themselves.

“As a charity dedicated to working with people with

disabilities and health conditions for more than 100 years, we believe we are uniquely placed to help businesses improve their own support for such colleagues,” said Andy Milton, Director of Employment Services at RBLI. “Our national

team of expert qualified assessors enables us to identify and

recommend the right solutions that really can level the playing field and maximise potential in the workplace.”

RBLI services include professional workplace assessments for

anyone with work-related barriers, disabilities or impairments; workstation assessments; and disability awareness training.

“We can deliver these services anywhere in the UK and

across sectors including, but not limited to, national and local

government, retail, transport, warehousing and logistics, care, IT, hospitality and financial services” said Andy Milton. “As

a not-for-profit organisation, every penny RBLI makes goes

straight back to providing employment and care support for

the wide range of military and non-military beneficiaries who need and rely on our support” said Andy Milton.

A new website has been developed to showcase the

support available to employers. To find out more visit: workplaceinclusion.co.uk 20 RBLI 100 YEARS

PROVIDING PATIENT SUPPORT THROUGH SOCIAL PRESCRIBING which supports people with long-term health conditions and disabilities into employment, hosted six events in Kent and Medway to celebrate National Social Prescribing Day. The

events fell on 14 March, and saw RBLI staff team up with a

number of community partners in Maidstone, Tonbridge and

Medway. The events aimed to help people access non-clinical services to find sustainable support for a range of issues that

might otherwise cause pressure on the primary and acute care services. This included support to help disabled people move into and stay in work.

At the Pentagon Centre in Chatham, RBLI was joined by

homeless charity Porchlight to showcase the support available for people with long-term health conditions and disabilities,

as well as individuals experiencing mental ill health. Together they highlighted how individuals can use their community Social Prescribing is a phrase many people may not be familiar with, however, it’s now a key part of our NHS.

partners to build confidence and access services that might lead to employment, both paid and voluntary.

Social prescribing involves helping patients to improve their

RBLI delivers the Let’s Get Working Project on behalf of

community services. For example, someone diagnosed with

is funded by The European Social Fund and The National

health, well-being and social welfare by connecting them to

dementia might be signposted by their GP to a local dementia support group run by a charity.

Social prescribing is a key component of the model of

Universal Personalised Care which is part of the action plan in the NHS’s Long Term Plan to roll out more personalised

care across England in the new 5 years. Research has shown

that social prescribing works well for a wide range of people,

including those with one or more long-term health conditions, those who need support with mental health, and those who

Sussex Community Development Association and the project Lottery Community Fund.

Andy Milton, Director of RBLI’s Employment Solutions, said: “Finding employment can unfortunately be challenging for people with health conditions and disabilities. The

Let’s Get Working events highlighted how we can help

people overcome a range of challenges and were a fun and informative way of us helping local residents into work by improving their confidence and well-being.”

are lonely or isolated. In addition to community services being ‘socially prescribed’ by medical professionals, people are

encouraged to self-refer if they hear about a service that they think would work well for them.

RBLI is proud to now be a part of a social prescribing

network, and the team behind ‘Let’s Get Working’, a project

RBLI RECIEVES GOOD FROM OFSTED April saw the newest team in RBLI Employment Solutions

recognised for their hard work, as they received a positive progress report from Ofsted.

Delivered since November 2017, RBLI’s skills courses help

individuals gain the knowledge they need to start work in key industries such as care and construction. Ofsted said RBLI

works effectively with partner organisations, ensuring courses are available and accessible to learners across Kent.

In addition RBLI’s team of trainers were praised for knowing their learners well, adapting activities and strategies to

accommodate all learners, and helping learners grow in confidence during their courses.

MARIA’S STORY Maria struggled with dyslexia and had low self-esteem

and confidence before she attended one of RBLI’s English programmes in February.

With our support, Maria was successful in passing the

qualification - the first course she had ever completed, as

she had previously dropped out of any course she had ever attended!

Maria is now closer to achieving her career goals and has

signed up for another skills course to get her even further on in her journey!

RBLI 100 YEARS 21

RBLI PRAISED FOR HELPING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES TO STAY IN WORK The national performance of the Employment Solutions team

“Thanks to the hard work and positive approach of our team

exceptional performance in one of its flagship programmes.

our efforts are appreciated, which will undoubtedly motivate

at RBLI was praised by the Government earlier this year, after The Employment Solutions division of RBLI helps people

we are playing our part in achieving this. It is great to know us to build upon our already strong results.”

to find, move into and stay in work, as well as build and

Steve Sherry CMG OBE, Chief Executive of RBLI, said: “RBLI

within Employment Solutions, and we are proud that our

welfare and employment support to ex-service personnel.

maintain the skills employers want. There are many teams team supporting individuals with health needs, disabilities

or learning disorders to remain and progress in employment were singled out for praise this year. Through the Access to Work programme, delivered by RBLI and other charities on behalf of the Department of Work & Pensions to people in

England, Scotland and Wales, our team enables individuals to maximise their potential in the workplace.

In a letter to RBLI, the DWP highlighted our team’s success

in delivering the programme and congratulated staff on the levels of customer service and performance being achieved

against key targets. Employment Solutions handles an average of 1,000 Access to Work assessments each month, and its 40

strong team of coordinators and assessors satisfied the DWP’s rigorous performance standards in terms of handling referrals and applications.

Andy Milton, Director of Employment Solutions based at

RBLI’s head office in Aylesford, said: “The Government has

set an ambitious target of helping one million more disabled people into employment by 2027.

22 RBLI 100 YEARS

was established as a military charity in 1919 providing crucial Over the past 100 years we have developed a wealth of

experience in supporting people into work and so now also deliver employability programmes to the wider community.

“Employment Solutions is an integral part of our work

and supports those who may be struggling to remain in

employment or to fulfil their potential in the work place. While we might be better known for our work supporting disabled or former armed forces personnel we are increasingly being called upon to apply our expertise and experience to help

individuals across the country overcome multiple challenges by securing and sustaining a job.”

RBLI’s Employment Solutions division, which has been

supporting people into work for more than 20 years, delivers numerous employability programmes across Kent from a range of main and outreach offices including in Ashford,

Chatham, Dartford, Dover, Margate, Sheerness and Tonbridge.

KEY STATISTICS

In November 2018,

Employment Solutions received a 5.5 out of 6 rating from DWP

85,000

working age people

in Kent & Sussex have no qualifications - we

are helping with skills courses

GARETH’S STORY “I had been out of work and on Universal Credit since Christmas. My confidence was low. Scott and Wayne have been great. They helped

me with my CV. They encouraged me to join the job club so that I can practice talking to other people about my experience. I found this

really helpful. I am not a whiz on computers. They helped me with this

12,000

as well, and really helped me build confidence applying online.

people find a job or stay in employment because of RBLI every year

“They also helped me get more qualifications. I got a First Aid

Certificate and a Level 1 and 2 NCFE customer service. Then I really

put in effort to apply for different roles. I got two job interviews in 2

days! I read the interview packs over and over with Scott. Then I was offered a cook role at KFC on the spot.

92%

“I am really excited about this, and the new opportunities it will

of people supported through Let’s Get Working have a disability

give me in the future. I have to say that if it wasn’t for RBLI’s team in

Bognor I would not be in work so soon. Since Christmas my confidence has been improving all the time. I could feel their commitment and drive for me, and gave me strength.”

60%

of people supported through Brighter Futures have a disability

JAY’S STORY

Jay came to RBLI Chatham distressed and anxious about her financial situation. She was out of work and furthermore in debt to the water company.

“I tried to speak with her about job hunting but the anxiety about

the water bill was overwhelming. We were able to have a thorough conversation about all her expenditure and utilities and I noticed

her gas and electricity were very high. We sat together while she

GB WIDE

Our support for disabled

people is delivered across England, Scotland & Wales

contacted them to discover she had indeed been over-paying for a long time and was due a refund.”

This cleared her water bill completely, and with money over, and Jay

was a changed person. “We were able to talk about job hunting, she attended our 6 week employability programme, and following this

immediately secured a role as a receptionist at vet surgery. Jay has

been there 10 weeks and has blossomed. It has been really incredible to see. She loves animals, she loves working, and her confidence is growing and growing.”

RBLI 100 YEARS 23

THANK YOU TO RBLI’S VOLUNTEERS June saw national volunteers’ week, and a chance to reflect on those men and women who are giving up their time to make a difference to RBLI and the people we support Incredibly, RBLI’s Volunteering Programme provided over 16,000 hours of vital support last year - with hours given

by over 500 individuals with a variety of ages, backgrounds and skills. Each and every volunteer helps ensure that our

organisation can continue to provide support to the Armed

Forces community, people with disabilities and those who are out of work.

RBLI volunteers are crucial to all the work we undertake, providing outstanding support right across our charity,

whether that is helping out in our Social Enterprise, Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, supporting fundraising

initiatives and events or providing invaluable befriending

support to help reduce isolation, to name but a very few.

National Volunteers’ Week in June provides charities with the opportunity to publicly celebrate and showcase the

incredible contributions made by individual volunteers. Staff

and beneficiaries at RBLI said thank you via a Volunteer Cheer event, and also shared stories online - these can be read at rbli.co.uk or on RBLI’s Facebook page.

It is true, that without the support of these volunteers, RBLI

would simply not be able to improve so many lives across the UK as we have done over the past year. For RBLI of course,

this year is particularly significant as it marks a whole century

since our work improving lives began. Volunteers have played a valuable part in the ongoing work of RBLI, contributing to our success for many years. However, RBLI’s formal

Volunteering Programme is still relatively new. It was first set up, hoping to enable the charity to help more veterans and disabled people by utilising the power of community spirit.

Since its establishment, volunteering in RBLI has gone from strength to strength.

Steve Sherry, RBLI Chief Executive, says: “I am constantly

overwhelmed by the dedication and commitment volunteers show. It is with the dedication and enthusiasm volunteers

show every day that they make a direct impact on not only the lives of those we support but also the wider community.”

RBLI were delighted and immensely proud to work on

the WW1 commemoration project There but Not There in 2018. This project saw staff in BBMC manufacture small commemorative Tommy figures, the proceeds of which 24 RBLI 100 YEARS

HOW HAVE VOLUNTEERS HELPED OVER THE LAST YEAR helped a number of military charities. In order to help the BBMC team complete orders to tight deadlines, RBLI put out a call for volunteers with an incredible response. All

volunteers involved made a significant contribution ensruing these souvenirs were packaged and delivered to customers efficiently. Volunteering also continued across the charity in roles including gardening, befriending and supporting

customer service in our community hub and cafe, Base Camp.

Moving forward, volunteers will be supporting RBLI’s new care facility (open August 2019), and our nursing home Gavin Astor House, due to be refurbished to include a specialist Dementia floor. Volunteers already provide vital support at Gavin Astor House, befriending our residents, but these new expansiosn will mean the charity need even more support to continue

to make this a thriving, lively and stimulating home for our residents.

HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP IN 2019/20 RBLI’s ambitious plans to improve and expand the RBLI village further, to provide even more accommodation and facilities for veterans will also mean more investment in staff and

volunteers. The charity urgently need volunteers to support us with our busy programme of events and fundraising

activities. These activities help raise the funds that are vital to the success of these projects.

If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering

please get in touch using the details on the opposite page.

CLARE’S STORY Clare joined RBLI earlier this year, having

time at Gavin Astor House. However

Clare would encourage others to

primary school. She now volunteers in

work truly was.

if it is for a couple of hours – you will

recently finished working full time at a

RBLI’s nursing home, Gavin Astor House, befriending the residents and helping

RBLI’s Lifestyle and Well-being Manager, Herve Boscher put on activities for them to enjoy.

“I enjoy being with elderly people - I

help my neighbour and I don’t have

any grandparents of my own and I kind of miss having slightly older people around.” says Clare.

Clare had known about the RBLI village for a long time, as her grandad lived

there and her grandmother spent some

she didn’t know quite how varied RBLI’s “I volunteer on Thursdays and Fridays and help where I am needed – either

helping run a designated activity such as a tea party or do an arts and crafts

session . The other week I just walked

round and had a chat with some of the residents.

Before I joined RBLI, I felt quite low in myself, but coming here and just

talking and being with different people has really helped my mental health and wellbeing. I look forward to it”

volunteer at RBLI: “Just do it – even enjoy it! Everyone has been really

supportive and helpful. When I started volunteering, I felt like the new girl on

the block and it’s a horrible feeling but everybody has been so lovely.”

Herve Boscher, RBLI’s Lifestyle and

Wellbeing Manager says, “Clare is a

gem of a volunteer – she has so much

to offer. Although she hasn’t been here very long, she ran the resident’s coffee morning with flair and personality and

has already charmed the residents who attended.”

COULD YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW GIVE TIME AND SUPPORT TO HELP RBLI IMPROVE LIVES EVERY DAY? We have a fantastic range of volunteer roles available and always looking for enthusiastic, passionate people to get involved and volunteer their time.

If you are interested in finding out more then please get in touch with the RBLI’s volunteering Team.

volunteer@rbli.co.uk

01622 795924 RBLI 100 YEARS 25

Five law firms have signed up to support Royal British Legion Industries’ first legacy campaign in its 100-year history in an

effort to promote the importance of having a will, while also offering support to former military personnel and disabled people.

RBLI’s Make A Will campaign has secured the support of law firms Brachers, Buss Murton, Cooper Burnett and Girlings and Gullands.

Each of the firms will offer 10 free wills to individuals or

couples across Kent as part of the initiative, which is linked to the RBLI’s Centenary Village appeal to develop new

apartments, homes and community facilities at Aylesford, near Maidstone.

The idea for the initiative came from a conversation between RBLI’s Chief Executive Steve Sherry and one of the charity’s

trustees Blair Gulland, Chairman of Maidstone-based Gullands.

Steve Sherry said: “In this our 100th year, we are looking

at how best to leave a legacy for the future generations of veterans and disabled people we support.

“With more than half of all UK residents not having a will,

people also need to think about how best they can leave their own legacy for their families and good causes, which is why we’ve set up the RBLI Make a Will campaign.

“Every penny donated to RBLI through legacies will go

directly to providing crucial care to support severely disabled veterans, as well as those facing homelessness.

26 RBLI 100 YEARS

“We are really pleased to have been joined by such great legal partners and delighted by their generosity.”

Each of the firms has agreed to provide 10 simple wills for

Kent residents as individuals, married couples or people in civil partnerships. If the wills are considered complex due to family structure, size of estate or require tax planning, it has been

agreed that solicitors will need to charge for services beyond producing a simple will.

Research found that more than half (54%) of the UK population don’t have a will.

Sue Lidbetter, Legacy Fundraiser at RBLI, said: “Having an up to date will prepared by a solicitor ensures your wishes are respected and can avoid difficult decisions and legal complications for your family.

“Taking part in our Make A Will campaign allows you to plan

for your family and friends’ futures, and at the same time leave a gift to the charities that you care about.”

Members of the public interested in being one of the 50 recipients of a free will through the RBLI’s Make A Will

campaign should visit www.rbli.co.uk/make-a-will or email:

legacy@rbli.co.uk and they will be matched with their nearest

law firm or firm of their choice if one of the 10 free wills is still available.

BE A FACEBOOK FUNDRAISER Why not raise money to help our veterans on your birthday?

1

Click Fundraisers in the left menu of your News

2

Click Raise Money. Select Nonprofit or Charity.

3

Select a Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI),

4

Fill in your details including why you want to

5

Click Create.Share, share, share!

Feed.

choose one of our cover photos.

fundraise for us and how much you want to raise.

6

IF AND WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT FOR 7YOU, PLEASE REMEMBER RBLI IN YOUR WILL. Remember, the young men and women who serve our country today are the veterans of the future.

For each of our veterans there is a moment when RBLI’s door opens and once again they see a life worth living.

Could you help us to keep that door open in the future?

Please visit rbli.co.uk/legacies or call our Fundraising team on 01622 795984 Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI). Registered charity number 210063

RBLI 100 YEARS 27

CELEBRATING THE COMMITMENT OF OUR TEAM

It comes around every year, and

those who have been setting an

commitment, conscientiousness and

above and beyond for our cause. Well

every year we are blown away by the high standards of our teams around the country in their commitment to improve lives every day. This year

was no exception, as we celebrated

everything from incredible results to

fantastic leadership and genuine hard work.

Everyone at RBLI is part of a team

making a difference to people’s lives

everyday, but these awards celebrate 28 RBLI 100 YEARS

example at the very top and going

done and thank you to our winners.

Steve Sherry said: “The competition for winners this has been, without doubt, the most difficult to date.

“What this highlights that although

not everyone received an award for their passion and dedication, it is

nevertheless both recognised and appreciated by the organisation.

RBLI 100 YEARS 29

THANKING THE PEOPLE WHO SUPPORTED US DURING 2019

We would like to thank the people who have helped us the past year

Steve Sherry, RBLI’s Chief Exec RBLI’s chief executive Steve Sherry completed a truly mammoth task - completing three marathons in a single day.

Steve took on the Spitfire Scramble - a gruelling 24-hour run which puts stamina, speed and torch batteries to the test.

The former Brigadier smashed his target, completing 14 laps

- or the equivalent of 3.2 marathons. For his efforts, Steve has

Paul and Tim from Pew Pew Airsoft

raised more than £3,100 for RBLI.

Two friends have raised more than £11,000 for Royal

British Legion Industries after one of them was supported

by the charity when he was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder after he was electrocuted at work.

Paul Sapsford and Tim Brown have raised the money selling patches to players of Airsoft – a team-based

shooting sport with military style objectives – raising

awareness of PTSD in the process and funds for RBLI during the charity’s centenary year.

The funds will help support RBLI’s £14 million Centenary Village development which will include an assisted-living housing scheme, plus 24 apartments and 20 new family homes centred around a state-of-the-art community centre.

Paul and Tim smashed their target having aimed to raise a total of £10,000 for Royal British Legion Industries.

30 RBLI 100 YEARS

Leeds Castle Triathlon participants: Our five supporters Robert Hardie, Neville James, Babette Knight, Shaun Ward and Steve Alman raised £1097.50 for RBLI.

RBLI CENTENARY EVENTS

Support Britain’s Bravest by taking in part with one of our events!

NORTH DOWNS 50

BRITAIN’S BRAVEST MILITARY CHALLENGE

28 September 2019

28 September 2019

Take on 50km from Farnham to Reigate by walking, jogging or

Are you looking to push your limits in an immersive military

style celebrations and evening hospitality, with camping options

create the most authentic experience possible. Take on

running with 1,500 others then soak up the finish line festival if you’re up for it!

rbli.co.uk/northdowns50

experience? BMF have worked with military leaders to

demanding military and training drills, requiring you to dig

deep in a series of fun but physically demanding challenges.

britains-bravest.eventbrite.com

ROYAL PARKS HALF MARATHON

SKYDIVE SATURDAY

13 October 2019

9 November 2019

We have limited number of places in this stunning half

Take the plunge and experience the thrill of skydiving 12,000ft

four of the most beautiful Royal Parks.

experience which allows you to jump out of a plane securely

marathon, taking in spectacular sites of the capital and includes

Hyde Park, London rbli.co.uk/royalparks

by joining our skydive day. A tandem skydive is an amazing attached to a very experienced skydiving instructor.

Kent, Wiltshire & Cambrudgeshire rbli.co.uk/sky-dive RBLI 100 YEARS 31

Contact us

Keep in touch

RBLI Head office

rbli.co.uk

Royal British Legion Industries

@Royalbritishlegionindustries

Hall Road

@RBLI

Aylesford

RBLI (Royal British Legion Industries)

Kent ME20 7NL

Royal British Legion Industries @rblicharity

Tel 01622 795900 Email enquiries@rbli.co.uk

Registered charity number 210063