SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity and the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF) have common charitable aims and have worked together closely for many years.
Even as it draws to a close, 2024 is no exception, and ABF has awarded SSAFA an incredible £245,000, which breaks down as £210,000 towards its casework service for Army beneficiaries and £35,000 towards Stepping Stone Home.
SSAFA’s casework, in simple terms, is at the core of the charity’s services, and the support provided is practical, efficient, and timely.
Stepping Stone Home provides secure, female-only accommodation and services for women and children of the Armed Forces community who have experienced domestic abuse and violence. It is a practical service, a lifeline, and a sanctuary all in one.
In a 2023 report by Anglia Ruskin University, it was called “… a unique and invaluable service”.
Last year, some 165 women and children were supported by SSAFA’s Stepping Stone Home, 48 with accommodation and 117 supported in the community. More than 80% of them had a connection to the Army.
Lieutenant General Sir Andrew Gregory, CEO of SSAFA, said:
“Time after time, the Army Benevolent Fund has provided incredible support to SSAFA so it can continue to deliver exceptional services to the Army family, and on behalf of all volunteers and staff, but most importantly those who come to SSAFA for help, thank you.”
Brigadier Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer, ABF, added:
“Since 1945, we have supported SSAFA in its mission to support serving personnel, veterans, and their families in their time of need. We are proud to support SSAFA’s Casework service which provides vital advice and assistance, tailored to the individual needs of soldiers, veterans, and their loved ones. This is especially important at a time when many families are facing increased living costs and higher bills, which can adversely impact mental health and wellbeing.”
SSAFA has been working for the whole UK Armed Forces community since 1885. Its mission is simple: to reach out to the Armed Forces family so they never battle alone. To learn more, visit ssafa.org.uk/requestingbackup.
