Veterand World Issue 16 by Veterans UK

Issue 16

June 2010

Raising awareness of the range of help and advice available to veterans

Armed Forces Day 2010 “Armed Forces Day is a chance for the nation to show its support for our men and women who are working tirelessly around the world on their behalf”

Cardiff will host this year’s national event Armed Forces Day, Saturday 26 June, is an opportunity for the nation to show its support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, including Service families, cadets, veterans and recruits. ACROSS the UK, people are already making plans to support the day. Cardiff City Council are hosting the national event and are working on an action-packed day of events. Lord Mayor of Cardiff, Cllr Brian Griffiths, said: "Armed Forces Day 2010 promises to be a day to remember in Cardiff. The event will be a chance for us to show our support to the brave Servicemen and women, with past, present and future being commemorated. Those who have lost their lives in conflict will also be remembered. It is fantastic for Cardiff and Wales as a whole to be given the opportunity to host the national event, and our aim is to have an Armed Forces Day that Cardiff, Wales and, of course the UK can be proud of." The Ministry of Defence said: “Armed Forces Day is a chance for the nation to show its support for our men and women who are working tirelessly around the world on their behalf. It is also an opportunity to recognise our veterans and the wider Armed Forces community. We urge everyone to get involved and help make Armed Forces Day 2010 a fantastic success.” For further information on Armed Forces Day from events in your local area to ideas on how you can get involved visit www.armedforcesday.org.uk People can also join the 235,000 strong Armed Forces Day community on Facebook: www.facebook.com/armedforcesday

Fly the Flag

Wear Your Uniform

Wear your Veterans Badge

The Fly the Flag initiative will again take place in 2010, and the MOD will send an Armed Forces Day flag to every local authority in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. People can now buy their own Armed Forces Day flag at the official supplier www.zephyr-tvc.com/

Friday 25 June is Uniform to Work Day, where Reservists and Cadet Adult Volunteers will be encouraged to wear their military uniform to work. Previously employees from businesses such as Superdrug, Battersea Dogs Home, the Post Office and the Houses of Parliament have taken part.

Veterans across the UK will also be wearing their H.M. Armed Forces Veterans Badge on 25 June, as a proud and visible reminder of the service they gave to this country. There are approximately 4.8 Million veterans in the UK, 769,000 who have already applied for their Veterans Badge. The MOD is encouraging everyone who is eligible to apply for theirs - www.veterans-uk.info

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

BEACON FOR VETERANS Pioneering training and housing Centre

BACK ON DRY LAND

RESULT FOR CHASELEY

ARTHUR’S FLYING HIGH

Help for Seafaring Veterans

Meeting the recognised standard

Achieving independance over disability

News in brief

Inquiry into former Armed Service personnel in prison •

The Howard League for Penal Reform has launched an independent inquiry into former Armed Service personnel in prison. THE inquiry will seek to discover the reasons why veterans enter the penal system, investigate how former Armed service personnel can be given appropriate support to prevent offending and look for good practice and new ideas. The inquiry, chaired by Sir John Nutting QC, one of the country’s leading barristers will involve primary research to elicit:

• • •

How many male prisoners have formerly been in the Armed Forces; The sort of offences they have committed; The problems they faced on leaving the armed services; and The support they received.

The inquiry is expected to last a year, in which time consultation sessions will be held with key stakeholders with members visits to prisons and the United States to examine new developments such as the introduction of Veterans’ Courts. To follow progress on the Inquiry, visit www.howardleague.org/

Armed Forces Community Welfare Pathway continues roll-out Hampshire, Wigan and Fife are the latest pilots to launch The MOD continues to work with local authorities to launch the Armed Forces Community Welfare Pathway pilots to enable serving personnel, their families and veterans to receive the help, advice and support they need from the people best-placed to provide it. THE Armed Forces Community will be able to get advice on everything from priority healthcare to housing and education, as well as link with Service and veterans’ charities and the Citizens Advice Bureau. Hampshire County Council is the second local authority to pilot the Welfare Pathway. Members of the Armed Forces Community will be able to access advice on their entitlements by calling Hantsdirect, the County Council’s contact centre, on 0845 603 5630.

Wigan Council is the third local authority to pilot the Welfare Pathway. Members of the Armed Forces Community will be able to access advice on their entitlements by visiting council offices or calling 01942 244991. Fife Council is the first in Scotland to launch their Welfare Pathway Project and appoint an Armed Forces Champion, providing support to serving and former military personnel in the region. The new ‘champion’ is Steve Grimmond, Fife Council’s Executive Director of Local Commmunities and Housing. The Armed Forces Community will be able to call on 08451 550033 or visit Fife Council offices to get advice and support on everything from priority healthcare to housing and education. The pilots are all supported by a single free national telephone number – 08000 223366 – that provides automated options for both in-Service and ex-Service personnel, their families and widows to use as an initial port of call, if uncertain of who to contact.

‘ABF The Soldiers’ Charity’ the new brand name for The Army Benevolent Fund The launch event took place on Salisbury Plain with the soldiers of 4th Mechanised Brigade who will shortly be deploying to Afghanistan.

Maj Gen Sir Evelyn Webb Carter ABF CE with 4 Mech Bde on Salisbury Plain

OVER the past few years the charity has seen a 30 per cent rise in requests for help and, given the ongoing operations in Afghanistan, they have set a challenge of doubling their income over the next five years. The new brand is there to support the challenge, making the charity more recognisable to young and old alike. ABF The Soldiers’ Charity want soldiers to know that they exist for them and for the public to

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June 2010

SPVA to cast its net wider

know that by supporting them, they support our soldiers past and present. They are determined that the lifetime of support will not be compromised so that whenever a soldier, former soldier or their dependant family call, they will be there with assistance, quickly and without fuss. Building on a long and rich history of support, the charity is embarking on this new chapter which will ensure it is able to support soldiers whenever they need assistance both now and in the future.To do this, it needs to be the charity that both soldiers and the public link with the wellbeing of soldiers and veterans. It is important that soldiers know they can focus on the job at hand whilst they are away and if they need help, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is there for them and their families’. For further information Write to: National Office, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Mountbarrow House 6-20 Elizabeth Street London SW1W 9RB Email: info@soldierscharity.org Tel: 0845 241 4820 Fax: 0845 241 4821

Agency embraces digital media to keep the Armed Forces Community Informed THE Service Personnel and Veterans Agency (SPVA) has launched a series of podcasts which aim to keep the Armed Forces Community up to date with the latest happenings within the Agency and how they may impact on the community.

The podcasts will cover a range of topics including Armed Forces Day and Veterans WORLD. They will also provide updates on issues such as the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme review. Future podcasts will also feature interviews with key figures within the Agency, informing listeners of the many services SPVA provides for the Armed Forces Community. The podcasts are now available for download on the Veterans-UK website and are also syndicated via iTunes. To listen to the podcasts, visit www.veterans-uk.info/pod.html Did you know? You can now listen to audio versions of Veterans WORLD via our website, visit www.veterans-uk.info/veteransworld.htm

Happy Birthday to the Regular Forces Employment Association Earlier this year, the Regular Forces Employment Association (RFEA) celebrated its 125th Anniversary FOR 125 years, RFEA has had one aim; to help men and women of all ranks, who have served in the Royal Navy, the Army and the Royal Air Force, to find and remain in work throughout their lives. One of the greatest challenges ex-Service personnel face is finding suitable and rewarding employment when they leave the military. This is where the RFEA comes in. Today, RFEA works with Right Management, part of the Career Transition Partnership (CTP), which deliver the MOD’s resettlement programme. The CTP gives Service leavers the tools they need to make the transition from a military to civilian career by providing a wide variety of workshops and training courses, along with dedicated support and an online job finding site ‘RightJob’ helping them find new employment. Importantly, the CTP and RFEA work closely with employers providing them access to a pool of exceptionally well trained, talented and motivated people who are an asset to any company. Veterans and those personnel who leave the Services, but are not eligible for the MOD’s transition programme are not excluded as grants from other Service charities enable them to access the support they need.

RFEA delivers its job-finding services through a network of 24 Employment Consultants throughout the United Kingdom, who work closely with local businesses and the CTP’s Regional Resettlement Centres. Every consultant has had both military and business experience ensuring that they deliver the highest quality advice and support to Service Leavers, Veterans and Employers. But clients and employers speak for themselves: “I have served in the Parachute Regiment for 14 years and recently returned from a tour of Afghanistan. After being de-mobilised I found it impossible to secure employment and struggled badly. I was put in touch with RFEA, who worked tirelessly to secure me funding for a course, which resulted in full time employment. Your dedication has effectively given me a brighter future, not just for me but my wife and daughter also.” (Ex-Army Lance Corporal) “I remain impressed with the calibre of the candidates I have seen. Not only are they strong on skills, but they also have a real can-do attitude and a sense of real loyalty and dedication in them.” (HR Manager - major fuel management company) For more information about the Regular Forces Employment Association: Contact: Richard Mantell Tel - 0845 873 7165 Email: rmantell@ctp.org.uk Visit: www.rfea.org.uk For more information about the Career Transition Partnership or RightJob visit: www.ctp.org.uk

Citizens Advice launches dedicated web information pages for Armed Forces Advice on finances, benefits and pensions for Serving Personnel, veterans and their families now online. THE self help website www.adviceguide.org.uk from Citizens Advice, has launched new information pages for serving members of the Armed Forces and their families. Dedicated free resources on finances, health, pensions and housing are now online. The information covers a diverse range of topics, from the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme to how to obtain reduced travel costs and includes contact details for a wide range of other

supporting welfare organisations. The information update has been carried out as part of the partnership Citizens Advice has with The Royal British Legion and the RAF Benevolent Fund. This funds specialist benefits and money advisers in bureaux and in-house at The Royal British Legion who give assistance to current and former Service personnel. www.Adviceguide.org.uk gives reliable, up-to-date information including frequently asked questions and downloadable fact sheets on a wide range of topics. Information is continuously reviewed by a team of advisers and covers England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

For more information visit www.veterans-uk.info

Armed Forces veterans encouraged to ‘Be the Boss’

New plans to support sick and injured soldiers

Armed Forces veterans looking to start their own business or become self-employed will be given more support under a new £5 million Government scheme.

Soldiers who are sick or injured will be given enhanced support to help them successfully return to duty or transition into civilian life under new plans announced by the MOD.

THE Government’s ‘Be the Boss’ campaign, to be delivered by the Royal British Legion, will provide ex-Service personnel with loans and grants to assist with the costs of starting and developing a business. The Royal British Legion will also increase the information and advice available to those looking to set up a business, including matching mentors to provide assistance to those in the early stages of their business career. The Royal British Legion will provide up to £5m in enterprise support, which can include training, funding to help meet initial costs, or financing to help grow a business established within the past two years. Ex-Service personnel, who have been discharged since October 7, 2001, will be able to apply for a loan of up to £30,000 and grants of up to £7,500 through the scheme, which builds on the Legion’s ‘Civvy Street’ website service. A veteran who has already had success running a business is ex-Army Captain Sarah Steel who served in the Royal Logistic Corps for ten years. After she left the Forces in 2000, she

struggled to find childcare for her children. That inspired her to retrain as a nursery teacher and start her own business. She now owns a chain of 12 children’s nurseries - four of which are on Ministry of Defence bases. Sarah said: “Running your own business can be challenging at times but it’s certainly rewarding. I’ve learned that the key to business success is having a really strong business plan. “Having easy access to mentors people who had been there before - would have been a great help to me and I’m sure others will benefit from this service.” Meanwhile, Paul Kyriakides left the Army in 1999 after serving as a Lance Corporal in the King’s Regiment. Upon leaving, the Army paid for him to attend a two-week course on telecoms cabling. In November 2008, he was made redundant. However, the Royal British Legion helped him to start up his own business last year. He was provided with advice and a loan to set up his own plant-growing business Kyrian Plants as a sole trader. He now sells at farmers’ markets in London and the South East. He also works parttime as a self-employed telecoms engineer. He said: “I started my business last year with the help of the Royal British Legion and I’m glad that more people will benefit from their support. Their help in developing a business plan helped me to overcome many pitfalls - although I wish that I had a mentor to bounce ideas off! “These are difficult times and it would be wrong for me to suggest that starting your own business is easy. However, it is an incredibly rewarding experience and has allowed me to use the discipline and hard work that I learned in the Army.”

Changes in line for AFCS Scheme A review has examined the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, from its basic principles through the levels of compensation for injured personnel, to how the Scheme evaluates claims. CONDUCTED under the independent chairmanship of former Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral the Lord Boyce, the review found several areas where the Scheme could be improved. The Secretary of State for Defence has agreed to implement all the recommendations made. •

A new fast interim payment will be introduced so those injured can receive some compensation before the entire claims process is complete;

•

A new expert medical body will be created to advise on compensation for particular injuries and illnesses such as hearing loss, mental health and genital injury;

The key changes include: •

•

Increase the tax-free, index-linked Guaranteed Income Payment (which is paid for life) to reflect the lasting effect of more serious injuries; likely promotions; and extended retirement ages.; The top level of award, already doubled in 2008, will remain at £570,000 but all other award levels will be increased; Those with the most serious multiple injuries will continue to receive full tariff value for each injury up to the maximum £570,000. The rules below that will change so that all injuries in a single incident will receive some compensation (rather than the first three injuries as now); The maximum award for mental illness will be increased;

•

The burden of proof will remain largely as it is, but improvements will be made in cases of illness and where records have not been properly maintained;

•

The time limits by which claims must be made will be increased; and

•

Improvements to the way in which the scheme is communicated to service personnel and their families, focusing on how the scheme works, what payments they might be entitled to, and the calculations behind them.

* Veterans World will report on progress in a future issue

THE Army Recovery Capability (ARC) will take soldiers from the point of injury or illness through to their return to duty or into a successful and supported civilian life. Under the ARC, educational, occupational and welfare support will be delivered to soldiers in a military environment. The scheme will be delivered in partnership with Service charities the Royal British Legion and Help for Heroes, as well as other Government Departments. The Army Recovery Capability will be made up of four key components A Personnel Recovery Branch will coordinate all elements of the Army Recovery Capability and provide the focal point for all aspects of support to the transition of wounded, injured and long term sick personnel. It will keep track of all those who enter the recovery process - to the

point of discharge and beyond - and will develop employment opportunities for those leaving the Army. Personnel Recovery Units, A co-ordinated network of 12 Personnel Recovery Units will provide support and guidance to personnel on a recovery pathway. The capability will provide occupational therapists, welfare staff, and links to training and educational organisations, charities and other Government Departments, ensuring that a holistic and fully joined-up service is provided. Individual Recovery Plans, Every person on a recovery pathway will have a tailored recovery plan, which is developed, co-ordinated and managed by a Personnel Recovery Unit. This will ensure individuals are able to access the particular support they need at each stage of their recovery. Personnel Recovery Centres, Experience shows that injured personnel find a military environment conducive to the best possible recovery, so purposebuilt Personnel Recovery Centres will be provided around the UK. Each centre will be located inside or close to Army sites, enabling access to Army facilities and support from the Army, including existing medical, educational and other garrison facilities.

A Beacon for veterans The first turf has been cut on a pioneering housing project for veterans of Iraq, Afghanistan and other conflicts at Catterick, North Yorkshire... THE Beacon is the result of a successful partnership with a range of other national and regional agencies: the Homes and Communities Agency, who will be providing capital funding; the Church Housing Trust, who will be raising charitable funds to furnish the centre; Communities and Local Government; Richmondshire District Council; and North Yorkshire County Council. The 31-unit purpose built centre will help single ex-Service personnel at risk of being left homeless, and is just one of the many projects and initiatives being developed to help provide first class services to ex-Servicemen and women. It will be run by English Churches Housing Group (ECHG), Housing and Support, who have worked with over 6,000 men and women from the Armed Forces since it first established its partnership with the MOD ten years ago. At the centre veterans can expect to be provided with temporary accommodation for up to 18 months, access to top of the range IT equipment and on-site training, as well as a service to help guide residents into employment and permanent housing. The centre’s facilities will include: • • • • •

IT suite Employment Area Health resource facility On-site training bakery Allotment site

In a further innovative step, as part of its construction, The Beacon will offer ECHG clients the opportunity to work on the building site to gain valuable construction training skills for future employment.

ECHG’s Managing Director, Derek Caren, said: “The Beacon’s services will be worthy of the veterans it will work with and will focus on making sure they make a successful leap back into civilian life once they leave the Armed Forces.” Importantly, The Beacon will reinforce a growing network of existing ECHG centres, including Mike Jackson House in Hampshire and an established, smaller centre, The Galleries, in Richmond, North Yorkshire. As a complement to the development, ECHG will also be capitalising on the land released by the MOD at the site in Catterick to build a separate development of twelve affordable family homes for rent, adjacent to the new centre. Case Study Michael Duerden, who saw active duty as part of his service with the RAF, and who subsequently found himself homeless through difficulties in his personal life, said: “After leaving the Services, I reached rock bottom in my life. It was only through the expertise of ECHG’s Galleries project, with its superb staff and accommodation, who’s help and guidance found me a place to live and helped turn my life around”. With ECHG’s help, Michael is now re-establishing links with his family and is focused on seeking employment and securing a flat of his own.

June 2010

Veterans WORLD

Back on dry land Support a 2010 is the official ‘Year of the Seafarer’, many of them have played their part in our military history from the two World Wars, the Falklands Conflict to more recent operations in the Gulf. Veterans WORLD reports on the support available to them . . .

2010 also sees a new definition agreed to identify UK Merchant Seafaring Veterans – Anyone who has served on a commercial vessel at a time when it was operated to facilitate legally defined UK military operations by HM Armed Forces.

Recognition

Did you know? During 1939-47 the Merchant Navy lost almost 35,000 men and women.

The Merchant Seafarers’ bravery and sacrifice in assisting HM Armed Forces in military operations is commemorated with the UK Merchant Seafarers Veteran’s Badge. LAUNCHED in June 2006, around 9,000 badges have been issued. It’s available to all Merchant Navy seafarers and fishermen who served in a vessel at a time when it was operated to facilitate military

operations by UK Armed Forces, at any time prior to 31 December, 1994. The badge cannot be issued posthumously as it is a survivors’ badge, which is to be worn on civilian clothing. The only exception to this is for Widow(er)s in receipt of a War Widow(er)’s Pension. The deceased must have served prior to and including 31 December, 1994. Members of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary who served prior to 31 December, 1994 should apply for the HM Armed Forces Veteran’s Badge. Application forms are available for downloading via the Veterans UK website: www.veterans-uk.info or call the Veterans-UK helpline 0800 169 2277 to request one.

On every ocean and every sea the line was never broken Named the ‘Fourth Service’ by Winston Churchill, the Merchant Navy has, throughout the nation’s history, ensured that supply lines to our Armed Forces have never been broken. Founded in 1989, the Merchant Navy Association’s (MNA) key aim still remains recognition and awareness, to ensure not just its members but all seafarers are acknowledged and valued.

seafarers deserve. It may also remind everyone that 95 per cent of all you see in our department stores and shops is imported by ships. The sea is the real super-highway with 146,000 ship movements in our ports last year.” As well as raising local and national awareness of current issues and establishing a national consensus of opinion, the MNA provides a number of services to its members ranging from a free Advice and Information Service, a selected range of discounts on a variety of goods and services, to a unique MNA Health Plan, personal and historical research and a quarterly magazine. “One of our many campaigns for recognition was realised when Merchant Navy Veterans were acknowledged with the issuing of the UK Merchant Seafarers Veterans’ badge. The MNA are now honoured to be one of the two MOD agents for the verification and distribution of the UK Merchant Seafarers Veterans badge”.

“One in four seafarers lost their lives in CAPTAIN John Sail, the Association’s National the Second Chairman explains, “The Merchant Navy and its World War.” seafarers played a critical and

often strategic role in times of war and conflict. Although the majority of those in the Armed Forces are well aware of that contribution, many members of the General Public are simply unaware of their dedication, their commitment and their sacrifice . . . one in four seafarers lost their lives in the Second World War. “An important date in our diary every year is the 3rd September – Merchant Navy Day. This day is now commemorated and celebrated all over the UK. The MNA are particularly grateful to the many Councils who fly the Red Ensign on that day. It’s a vivid reminder of the support and recognition that the Merchant Navy and its

Veterans WORLD

June 2010

For further information call 01472 851130 email enquiries@mna.org.uk or visit www.mna.org.uk

THE first ship sunk on 3 September 1939 in the second World War was the SS Athenia, in the Atlantic, just hours after Prime Minister Chamberlain’s announcement on the wireless that Great Britain was at war with Germany. The Atlantic Conveyor and its crew were one of over 100 ships that

formed the task force that headed to the Falklands. On 25 May 1982, it was sunk with the loss of 12 men including Captain North who was awarded a posthumous Distinguished Service Cross (DSC). The Atlantic Conveyor was one of the 50 merchant ships and 22 Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships involved in the conflict.

Repaying the Debt How the umbrella organisation for the maritime community supports seafarers across the UK.

Seafarers UK is the leading charity for the whole UK maritime community. It’s often described as a ‘wholesale’ charity, acting as the collector and distributor of funds for the ‘retail’ service-providing charities who deal with individuals in need. FORMED in 1917, it’s taken on the expensive burden of fundraising for much of the sector and allowing the front-line experts to deliver all types of specialist welfare support. Grants are provided across all areas of need, whether it’s the older post-war generation, working-age sailors of today, or their families and dependants. Seafarers UK has formed a partnership with five other maritime charities – Trinity House, Merchant Navy Welfare Board, Nautilus UK, the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and Seamen’s Hospital Society – to ensure that all the funds available to the whole sector are placed most effectively and efficiently wherever the need is greatest. This partnership, known as the Maritime Charities Funding Group (MCFG) has carried out detailed research on the particular needs of the seafarer, and jointly funds projects that reach across the whole UK nautical community. In 2009, the partnership launched two new services: •

Seafarers Support - a telephone referral service which directs callers to the seafaring charity best placed

Sally Oliver, Seafarers Welfare Support Officer

•

to help them. The service also provides advice to welfare professionals, who work in the maritime community, where to find specialist help. The Seafarers Link – A free service which is a fortnightly social phone group, intended to reduce isolation and ease the transition for those seafarers who find it difficult to make friends having spent a long career at sea. The first pilot is in Hull, with plans to expand in other UK locations.

In the tri-Service arena, Seafarers UK also helps to fund Combat Stress, SSAFA Forces Help and St Dunstan’s, and is currently working with the Royal British Legion on a new research package. If you are a welfare professional and need to find help for seafarers there are a number or resources to help you, call Seafarer Support on 0800 121 4765 to find out more. For further information call 0207 932 0000 email seafarers@seafarers-uk.org or visit www.seafarers-uk.org/

Call the FREE Veterans UK Helpline 0800 169 2277

at home for seafaring veterans Sister organisations, Women’s Royal Naval Service Benevolent Trust and Association of WRENS (AOW) work together for the benefit of all female veterans of the Royal Navy. ASSOCIATION OF WRENS 90th Anniversary. THE Association of Wrens was formed in 1920 and is still keeping the sprit of naval Servicewomen alive today. Membership is drawn from ex-Naval Service women together with those currently serving in the Royal Navy. The age of members ranges from early twenties to those who served in the Second World War, including several centenarians. This year, the AOW is proud to be celebrating 90 years of memories, camaraderie and support with members.at a service of commeration at the Royal Naval Church, St Martins in the Fields , Trafalgar Square, on 13 November 2010. The Association of Wrens fully supports the valued work of the WRNS Benevolent Trust and actively promotes their services To join the Association contact Tel: 020 932 0111 Email: office@wrens.org.uk or Visit: www.wrens.org.uk

Women’s Royal Naval Service Benevolent Trust [WRNS BT] THE WRNS BT is a registered charity and membership is open to anyone who served in the former Women’s Royal Naval Service and those who transferred to the Royal Navy in 1993. The Trust delivers help and advice to approx 450 ex-Wrens and dispenses £300 - £400K of services per annum to those who find themselves in some form of need. Financial help in the form of regular annuity payments,help with primary debts and grants for house adaptations, and funeral expenses are just some of the types of benefit that are available. WRNS BT have no caseworkers of their own and rely on the help of Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association – Forces Help and The Royal British Legion to provide caseworker visiting officers who will send a confidential report for consideration. The Trust works alongside AOW and are grateful for their help in fund raising and promoting the help and advice that is freely available to all former members of the WRNS. To find out more or about help and assistance contact the Trust. Telephone: 02392 655301 Email: generalsecretary@wrnsbt.org.uk Website: www.wrnsbt.org.uk, or write to: 311 Twyford Avenue, Portsmouth PO2 8RN.

Editor’s Note This is just a sample of the help and support available...

Weathering the storm of isolation Merchant Navy Associations working together

Former Chief Radio Officer Lewis Wilson celebrated both his 94th birthday and the award of the UK Merchant Seafarers Veterans Badge.

THE Federation of Merchant Mariners works in partnership with Merchant Navy Associations enabling them to reach out to more Veterans by sharing resources and experience. It brings seafarers, exseafarers and their families together in fellowship through a wider network of social contacts and support. Building on such a strong community spirit, the Federation has developed the Weather Eye scheme which is tailored

especially for its members. It offers a free confidential advice and referral package on welfare matters and puts members in touch with one another helping to banish feelings of isolation and loneliness. From a telephone call to see if all is well; a chat with the Welfare Officer to a birthday card makes the scheme personal and special. Feeling valued and appreciated is an essential element of the Weather Eye scheme. Derek Bristow, Chief Executive of the Federation explains,”Working in the maritime industry is unique; months away at sea, away from family, means it’s very important to build strong friendships with your colleagues. When you retire, the opportunity to make new friendships can be difficult for some of our veterans. We hope that Weather Eye will help support them in this way and reduce the possibility of isolation.” Membership of the Federation is open to all merchant seafarers and ex seafarers of whatever rank or rating, and their families. For further information call 01480 412958, Email Info@merchant-mariners.co.uk or visit www.merchant-mariners.co.uk

June 2010

Veterans WORLD

Supporting our heroes The Mark Wright Project

Chris Savage in discussion with Bob and Jem Wright at the drop in centre

THE Centre, in Dalkeith, close to Edinburgh, was the inspiration of Bob and Jem Wright whose son, Mark, was killed in September 2006 while serving with the Parachute Regiment on operations in Afghanistan. For his extreme bravery he was posthumously awarded the George Cross.

“Mark was the bravest person I ever had the honour of working with, followed by his Mum and Dad for setting up this charity in his name. I would like to thank them for sponsoring my own treatment.”

At the heart of the Centre, there is a real sense of comradeship with the Centre’s director, Nancy Campbell and the volunteer staff demonstrating the strong commitment of the charity to support and encourage those men and women who served in the Armed Forces and because of the severity of their wounds or injury, physical and emotional, have had to return to civilian life prematurely. The Centre’s homely and relaxed atmosphere provides an informal setting for veterans to share the challenges they are facing, be given practical ’hands on‘ support and advice to enable them to regain their selfesteem and confidence. The Centre is working closely with many other organisations and military charities; Midlothian Council, Veterans First Point, Combat Stress, Poppyscotland, SPVA, Citizens Advice Bureau SSAFA Forces Help, Royal British Legion Scotland, the NHS and the wider local community in the Lothians to ensure that the veterans

who visit the Centre receive coordinated, timely and effective support. The grass roots approach at the Centre ensures there is always a welcome for those seeking support as they adjust during their transition from the Services and thereafter; learning life skills is proving an important element of the visitors’ needs.

Bob Wright said: “I think Mark would be proud of us, creating something positive that will help our lads and lassies.” Paul Hartley, who as a medic tried to save Mark’s life commented: “Mark was the bravest person I ever had the honour of working with, followed by his Mum and Dad for setting up this charity in his name. I would like to thank them for sponsoring my own treatment.” Chris Savage, who is benefiting from support at the Centre added: “This is a frontline service, just what is needed in the 21st century, addressing both veterans and their families’ needs.” Jim, relaxing among company said: “I have finally found a family – you don’t need to explain yourself, you just get the practical support and help you need.” Andy, a director and volunteer, enthused: “The Centre gives me purpose, and a chance to be me and a direction in life.” Further information on The Mark Wright Project is at www.themarkwrightproject.org.uk

families are fully prepared. Partially funded by the MOD, it will initially be available for a two-year trial period and will be carefully evaluated during this time to check that it is successfully meeting the needs of families. The MOD will fully support this By the summer, a new initiative but will play no part in the initiative will be launched to running of the service in order to ensure help families who have lost that advice remains independent and impartial. loved ones in the Armed Bereaved family members will be able Forces by providing to contact the RBL legal advisers by phone independent legal advice. or by e-mail, and arrange face-to-face meetings. The MOD and RBL will aim to make sure – for example through MOD THE Royal British Legion (TRBL) will offer a Visiting Officers, written material and free Independent Legal Advice Service to relevant websites – that families bereaved Service families. TRBL’s legal understand what the service provides, and advisers will be available to give that it is available if they want to use it. information and guidance, in particular The service will be free. about the inquest process, to ensure that * Veterans World will report on progress in a future issue Veterans WORLD

June 2010

THE Chaseley Trust, a registered charity that cares for adults with severe physical disabilities, and prioritises service veterans. The Trust is currently caring for 15 veterans full time with veterans also supported with respite/holiday and day care services. It operates two residential nursing homes in Eastbourne, East Sussex. The main home, Chaseley, has 55 beds and offers residential, respite and day care, along with multi-disciplinary therapy services. The second home comprises a small settlement of bungalows offering service users more individual space and choices in their daily routine. Chaseley’s Chief Executive Sue Wyatt said, “We wanted to find a way to

illustrate to both our existing and prospective service users, and to those purchasing placements here, that we provide a quality and consistent service, not just in terms of hands on care for which Chaseley is already renowned, but in all aspects of our business” For further information on the Trust call 01323 744200 or visit www.chaseley.org.uk

BLESMA strikes gold

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Helping Bereaved Families

The Chaseley Trust has achieved ISO 9001 certification, an internationally recognised standard to ensure customer satisfaction.

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The Mark Wright Drop-in Centre first opened its doors in November 2009.

Quality certification for Chaseley

THE Elizabeth Franklin Moore BLESMA Home in Blackpool has been awarded the prestigious Investors in People (IIP) Gold award.

Ms Longden praised the contribution of her staff and the role they played in achieving the award, “This is a very special place, some of our staff have been with us for twenty or thirty years and this award is a tribute to them.“

THE award was presented to home manager, Jacqui Longden by the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, Lord Shuttleworth at a ceremony recently.

Take a listen

The Gold award, the highest IIP award possible, is granted to the top one per cent of recognised IIP organisations. For an organisation to receive IIP Gold status it must achieve a minimum of 126 evidence based requirements beyond the basic standard, which requires less than 40 criteria to be met. The home provides 24 hour nursing and residential care for limbless exServicemen and women and the high standard accommodation includes six ensuite double rooms and nine single nursing beds.

The presentation ceremony is featured in an SPVA podcast, a recent communication initiative by the Agency which aims to reach a wider audience of the veterans and the service community by utilising a variety of accessible media formats. The podcast is available to download via the Veterans-UK website - www.veterans-uk.info - or iTunes. For more information on the services provided by Blesma, call 0208 590 1124 or visit www.blesma.org/

Email enquiries on veterans issues to: veterans.help@spva.gsi.gov.uk

If you don’t know where to go StartHere, a national charity, has launched an exciting new information service.

A result of a year long project led by The Royal British Legion (TRBL) with other key Service charities and the Service Personnel & Veterans Agency (SPVA), a shared service that lists organisations offering help and support to Serving and ex-Service personnel and their families is now available. STARTHERE’S original award-winning service provides up-to-date details of around 1,200 national organisations offering support on a wide range of issues including health, housing, care, families, education, employment, debt, wellbeing

and welfare rights. TRBL and Poppyscotland have been delivering StartHere on their websites and intranet since 2007. Average hits of around 4,000 a month on a range of issues such as homelessness, finding a job, mental health,

Big back-up for ex Service moving into ‘civvy street’

disability equipment, and benefits suggest there is a real need for people to be able to help themselves to this information. Harvey Tilley, Head of Community Services at TRBL said, “Often the key to solving a problem is finding the right information and organisation to help. StartHere provides an up-to-date service with clear and easy signposting that helps an individual find the relevant information simply, quickly and effectively”. TRBL recognised early on the need for a shared resource for caseworkers and individuals across the sector. This has led to the development of this new specific version of StartHere for the Armed Forces Community. The new service incorporates around 170 organisations and services specifically for this community. From this April, Start Here is available on the following organisations’ websites: TRBL, SPVA (Veterans UK), Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA), Combat Stress, Poppyscotland, The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund (RAFBF), Confederation of British Service and ExService Organisations (COBSEO) and Veterans Scotland. David Johnson(SPVA) said, “Having the StartHere service available on the veteransuk.info website provides veterans with access to help and support from literally hundreds of organisations across the country. It’s a valuable addition to our online services and complements our existing Veterans Knowledge Map interactive advice facility”. Val Farmer, Head of Community Partnerships at StartHere said, “This exciting development means the Armed Forces information will be promoted

BIG intends to establish an independent trust to provide long-term support and advocacy for those who served in conflicts including Iraq, Afghanistan and the Gulf War. The Trust will draw on the expertise and dynamism of the many charities working in this field and will provide support for those working with veterans to improve their psychological well-being. Charities and other experts in the field are clear that where the impact of the transition from Forces to civilian life is traumatic it can lead to issues such as depression, family trauma, substance misuse, homelessness and even suicide. It will be the Trust’s challenge to help veterans tackle these issues. BIG, the largest of the Lottery good cause funders, has been consulting with Service and ex-Service bodies to help identify where it can best meet the needs and build the capacity of organisations supporting ex-Service families. It has been estimated that around 19,000 Service personnel return to civilian life each year. Chair of the BIG Lottery Fund, Sir Clive Booth who announced the funding said:

If you would like further information about the project please contact: val@starthere.org StartHere can be accessed via the Royal British Legion website: www.britishlegion.org.uk/can-wehelp/who-else-can-help and all participating organisations’ websites including www.veteransuk.info/knowledge/index.html

New Jobcentre Plus ‘Champions’ for Armed Forces launched

Lottery fund announces £35 million for ex-Service personnel The BIG Lottery Fund is announcing a £35 million Forces in Mind programme. The funding will help those veterans who struggle with the transition to civilian life, especially those whose psychological well-being subsequently impacts on the quality of their life and others around them.

through all StartHere clients, such as NHS Choices, local authorities, PCTs, major charities, prisons and probation service.” Recent research by NHS Choices and Directgov found that 91per cent of people found StartHere easy to use. The service has been awarded Shaw Trust's 'Accessible Plus' accreditation and has Plain English Campaign approval. Mike Bray, Secretary of COBSEO said: “StartHere is an excellent and simple to use package for the Armed Forces Community (serving and retired) to steer them towards the help they are seeking when in need of support. This Royal British Legion led initiative on behalf of COBSEO is a signposting, web based tool for case workers and those seeking help”. Gary Gray, Head of Charitable Services said: “At Poppyscotland we want to give people as many choices as possible on how they can access information in ways that are appropriate for them. StartHere adds to this by giving an interactive service where people can help themselves by selecting their particular issue and choosing where they should go for help”.

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The Jobcentre Plus Armed Forces Champions were launched in March as a part of a package of measures to support the families of Service personnel.

“For some the after-effects of making the transition from a career in the Forces do not always present themselves in an obvious way or even immediately. Supporting organisations that can make a real difference to the reintegration into civilian life of the men and women who have served their country is a real and pressing priority for us.” BIG has established a remarkable legacy in funding older veterans and now we want to also focus on more recent veterans and their families including returnees from Iraq and Afghanistan by putting in place this long term support.” Forces in Mind will enable existing organisations that support veterans and their families to improve access to appropriate and relevant services. It will also fund research, awareness raising and advocacy work. Full details of the Big Lottery Fund programmes and grant awards are available on the website: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk

THE main role of the champions is to be a key strategic link between Jobcentre Plus and the Armed Forces Community. This means that they will be the main point of contact for the Armed Forces to tackle issues or problems relating to employment and work-related benefits, such as Jobseeker’s Allowance. The Jobcentre Plus Armed Forces Champions will:

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ensure that customer-facing Jobcentre Plus staff are providing the correct advice and support to members of the Armed Forces Community; pick up on problems encountered by Service families seeking work in their geographic area of responsibility, and take positive action to raise awareness of the Armed Forces Community and how they can offer valuable skills and experience to local employers; also form links with local military establishments in order to increase their Service awareness and that of staff in their district to help Jobcentre Plus staff offer a more understanding service to members of the Armed Forces Community, including keeping abreast of key changes at local military establishments (such as a large influx of Service families seeking work).

There are around 50 champions that have been established, based around the UK in ‘districts’ which are generally countybased. London and Manchester are the only exceptions to this, with the cities broken down into districts to accommodate the large customer base in these areas.

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SPVA-VeteransWorld@mod.uk Please send all Veterans WORLD enquiries or article contributions to our new address.

June 2010

Veterans WORLD

FAB Holidays give bereaved forces families a welcome break

The Families Activity Breaks (FAB) aims to send 100 bereaved Armed Forces families on activity holidays across the UK this summer, in collaboration with the Youth Hostel Association of England and Wales. FAB provides activity holidays for families with children aged up to 19 years, who have suffered the loss of a loved one serving in the Armed Forces. They offer an adventure for all the family and a welcome break to meet and socialise with others who have experienced a similar loss. Lucy Aldridge, whose son Rifleman Will Aldridge died aged 18 in Afghanistan in 2009, was one of the first mothers to attend a FAB holiday last year. She said: “I had an absolutely fantastic time with my children on a FAB holiday last year. My son had died only seven weeks before we went on the holiday, and for my younger

POPPY ADVENTURE BREAKS – 2010 Free Family holidays for the most disadvantaged. The Family Holiday service offers a seven night package in selective Haven holiday centres inclusive of on site free activities. They have an extensive range of day time activities for all age groups and a programme of evening entertainment.

children – aged only four and five at the time - those weeks had been a particularly traumatic and confusing time. “Being able to go on holiday made all the difference. They benefited hugely from spending time with children of all ages who had suffered a similar loss, and we could spend time together as a family for the first time in weeks. It was an overwhelmingly positive experience I will never forget.”

THE Poppy Adventure Break is a great opportunity for young people to enjoy themselves, meet new people, experience new things, improve their self esteem - and most of all have fun. Needless to say parents get a well earned break as well. The key focus of this service is to assist families with children who are between 12 – 17 years and meet one of the criteria below:

“It was an overwhelmingly positive experience I will never forget.”

Young people eligible under the Royal Charter are those:

FAB ran as a highly successful pilot in 2009. Over the summer 24 families took part at two locations, Coverack in Cornwall and Whitby in North Yorkshire. In 2010, FAB aims to send up to 100 families on these exciting breaks, this year with additional locations in Wales and Scotland. The holidays for this summer will take place over July and August, and the FAB team are urging Forces families to go online and apply for a place at www.mod.uk/fab

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From a one parent household because of bereavement or break up of the family.

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From a family with one parent currently serving on overseas operations

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From a family where a parent is caring for a disabled partner

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From a family who have not had a

HIGH FLYER Arthur given new lease of life Arthur Williams, a former Marine who suffered devastating injuries in a car crash has been given new freedom by learning to fly, thanks to the work of the British Disabled Flying Association (BDFA).

THE 23-year-old had just returned from an overseas operation in Norway in 2007 when he and his girlfriend were involved in a car crash which left him paralysed. Undeterred by his disability, he approached the BDFA and after his first flight, he started training for his private pilots’ licence. Nearly a year on, Arthur is the first former Serviceman to gain his Private Pilots License through the BDFA and says that flying has helped him deal with anger he felt in the wake of his accident. He said: “I have always had an interest in flying. I was searching the internet one day and found the BDFA, I rang them and asked if it was something I could try and soon I was down at Lasham enjoying my first flight. After nine hours of flying, I went solo and in

Veterans WORLD

June 2010

total it has taken me ten months. “It has taken a few days to sink in that I had passed my test and I have a real feeling of achievement. I’m the sort of person who craves the next goal and it was a feeling I haven’t had for years. It is the way I have always been, being in the Marines has meant I like structure and looking forward to the next challenge.” During the months after the accident, Arthur found it difficult to come to terms with what had happened and how daily tasks became a chore - a far cry from the fit and athletic man he once was. He continued: “It has taken a long time to get over the fact I cannot use my legs and the anger issues are still there but I am more capable of controlling those feelings. Flying has empowered me to get over the anger. It is hard to image that I have gone from being a fighter to someone being in a wheelchair who isn’t capable of doing much. Flying has given me a whole lot more freedom - freedom which was taken away from me when I became disabled. I feel independent, knowing that I can just hire the plane and take myself off when and where I feel like.” Arthur was on leave at the time of the accident when his car hit black ice, skidded off the road and flipped over. He broke his back in three places and was

left paralysed from the waist down. “There have been times when I have not known how to deal with my anger. I had a very short fuse during the time I was serving and trying to get over the anger of being disabled is so hard. I’m a very determined person and even refused to have an electric wheelchair - I never allowed myself to give in that easily. “In the 18 months following the accident, I reviewed what I was going to do with my life. Most people with a disability end up doing desk jobs and that is something I didn’t want for myself - it was a real struggle trying to find out what I wanted to do.” It is people like Arthur that the BDFA aims to help. It is a charity run by disabled people for disabled people, and aims to give those who have faced struggles and hardships the chance to experience something like any able bodied person. The BDFA have operational bases at Lasham near Basingstoke in Hampshire, and Tatenhill near Derby. Low cost trial flights are available, with full training to PPL also on offer. Arthur flies one of their adapted Piper PA28 aircraft, fitted with a hand rudder control. Even very severely disabled people can try flying with the BDFA, which has specialist hoisting equipment allowing people to be lifted into their slidingcanopy Bulldog aircraft. For further information visit www.bdfa.net or e-mail: info@bdfa.net

holiday or break away from home in three years •

From a one or two parent household with less than £25,000 gross annual income per year.

Working in partnership with Klub Group, a provider of adventure holidays for many years, the Legion offers free week-long adventure breaks to children of men and women who are currently serving, or have served in the Armed Forces. The seven night package has been created for Poppy Breaks and will include full board accommodation, all on site activities, a trip to a nearby theme park, pocket money and transport to and from the centre. Summer holiday dates for 2010 are available at various sites. Applications The application process will be through the new application form for Poppy Support Services, the PS1, which is available on line and brochures are available from the Care Service Administrator. Once the application form has been received at Head Office the Administrator will maintain contact with Parents/Caseworkers and will coordinate all the details of the reservation directly with the Kids Klub Centres.

For further information on how to apply for a Poppy Adventure Break call Legionline on 08457 725 725 or email: gbennett@britishlegion.org.uk Visit: www.britishlegion.org.uk/canwe-help/poppy-breaks For brochures. contact Colin Drew at Aylesford Tel: 01622 795 813

Contact Details

Managing Editor: Laurie Manton Editor: Clare Ellis Deputy Editor: Chrissie Butterworth Email: SPVA-VeteransWorld@mod.uk For distribution enquiries Email: SPVA-VeteransWorld@mod.uk or call: 01253 330451 Want to make an editorial contribution? Contributions are most welcome. To raise awareness of an initiative, scheme or organisation that offers help, advice or support to veterans contact the editorial team by emailing: SPVA-VeteransWorld@mod.uk Editorial content enquiries contact: Managing Editor: Laurie Manton by Email: SPVA-VeteransWorld@mod.uk or by calling: 01253 333882