On Friday 28 June, volunteers, Ambassadors and serving RAF personnel joined staff and branch members from the RAF Association to check on the wellbeing of thousands of members of the RAF community.
As part of its national outreach campaign to mark Armed Forces Day (29 June), the Association made over 2,000 calls to members of the RAF community all over the world to check in on their wellbeing and to arrange further support if needed.
One volunteer commented:
“I have been truly humbled by my experience supporting the RAF Association’s outreach campaign today. Having spoken to seven wonderful ‘old boys’, one of whom hadn’t spoken to anybody (not even a postman or a neighbour) for over a month, it proved to me how easy it is to make a difference – small, yes, but impactful nevertheless.”
Veterans are less likely than those without military backgrounds to approach charities for support. Furthermore, RAF veterans are more likely to live alone than other adults within the wider UK population, making them even more vulnerable.
The rising cost of living continues to cause huge anxiety and worry amongst the RAF community. The Association continues to see an increase in the number of people seeking urgent financial assistance and the cost-of-living crisis has also increased the number of older adults experiencing loneliness and isolation.
Rory O’Connor, Charity Director at the RAF Association, said:
“The power of a simple phone call cannot be underestimated. It can make a huge positive difference to an individual’s wellbeing. Our outreach campaign is vital and enables us to reach those in the RAF community who may need our support. Our volunteers have been speaking to people struggling with a range of issues, such as bereavement, life-changing injuries or financial difficulties. Thanks to the calls from our volunteers, they are now receiving the help and support they need and deserve.”
