HighGround, the Pen and Sword Club, and SSAFA marked the beginning of an exciting new affiliation with a celebratory drinks reception at the esteemed Farmers Club in Whitehall. The event, held on the evening of 29 May, brought together representatives from all three organisations to commemorate this significant affiliation.
A huge thank you and appreciation, to all who attended, showcasing the drive and commitment behind this venture in ensuring that this affiliation starts as it means to carry on.
The reception was a vibrant affair, filled with engaging conversations and a shared commitment to supporting veterans and those currently serving in the armed forces. The affiliation between HighGround, the Pen & Sword Club, and SSAFA represents a unified effort to provide unparalleled support, resources, and opportunities to the military community.
HighGround is renowned for its innovative approach to offering life beyond the military, helping service leavers and veterans transition into the civilian world, particularly through opportunities in rural and agricultural sectors.
The Pen & Sword Club has a storied history of supporting journalists who cover defence and military issues, fostering a network of professionals who are dedicated to bringing military stories to the forefront of public awareness.
SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has been providing lifelong support to our Forces and their families since 1885, offering a wide range of services from housing to mental health support.
The affiliation between these three distinguished organisations is expected to enhance the scope and effectiveness of their individual and collective missions. By combining their resources and expertise, they aim to offer more comprehensive support to those who serve and have served in the armed forces.
During the reception, guests enjoyed a selection of fine wines and canapés, while keynote speakers from each organisation shared their vision for the future of this collaboration.
In his address at the event, Brig. (retd.) Simon Caraffi, Chair of Trustees, said,
“HighGround is honoured to be invited to affiliate with the Pen and Sword Club, particularly alongside SSAFA which has served our Armed Forces and their families for so long. We share a common desire to inform and educate the country about the qualities our service men and women bring to society and what they can offer to civilian employers. We look forward to strengthening our relationship with Pen and Sword in pursuit of this shared vision.”
Jamie Crisp, CEO of HighGround, commented on the evening:
“This affiliation marks a significant milestone for HighGround. We are thrilled to join forces with the Pen & Sword Club and SSAFA, two organisations that share our dedication to supporting the armed forces community. Together, we can achieve even more in helping our servicemen and women transition to fulfilling civilian lives within the land-based sector.”
Founder and Head of Income Generation, Anna Baker Cresswell, said,
“Since the Pen & Sword first invited me to one of their lunches in 2013, I have seen the organisation grow in influence and reach. To know that leaders including Sir George Zambellas; club president, former Secretary of State for Defence and NATO General Secretary, Lord George Robertson, and club Patron, Air Chief Marshal, Lord Stuart Peach will now be aware of HighGround due to this affiliation is a source of enormous pride to me. We are nothing without our Friends.”
The event at the Farmers Club was a resounding success, setting a positive tone for the future of this newly formed affiliation. The combined efforts of HighGround, the Pen & Sword Club, and SSAFA are poised to make a significant impact on the lives of service members, veterans, and their families.
