ABF The Soldiers’ Charity

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is the National Charity of the British Army. They give a lifetime of support to soldiers, veterans and their immediate families, in times of need.

They make grants to individuals through their Regiments and Corps and support a wide range of specialist charities that sustain the British Army ‘family’, both at home and around the world. They take pride in being responsive, making a difference at a critical point in peoples’ lives. They have been doing this since 1944, working with veterans of every conflict, and they envisage continuing doing so for the long haul – supporting all future generations of our soldiers and their immediate families. Each year, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity supports more than 5,000 individuals and gives grants to around 100 organisations which deliver support on their collective behalf.

They have been fortunate to enjoy Royal patronage since they were established in 1944, more than 70 years ago. As one the charities of which Her Majesty is Patron, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is delighted to be featuring in the Patron’s Hero films, as well as bringing beneficiaries and long-serving members of staff to enjoy the special lunch itself. The Queen’s patronage gives them strength and stature from which they can offer long-term help to soldiers, veterans and families. The Queen has attended their events, sent messages of support, and has met many of the staff and beneficiaries through her support of the Armed Forces.

For more information visit: http://www.soldierscharity.org

Major General (Ret’d) Martin Rutledge, Chief Executive ABF The Soldiers’ Charity:

“We are continually thankful to Her Majesty The Queen for the Patronage that she provides to ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. As the Head of the Armed Forces, Her Royal Highness has a lifelong relationship with the men and women of the British Army who serve her so dutifully. It is only right that The Soldiers’ Charity provides a lifetime support to the soldiers and veterans who have served their Queen.”

Jim’s Story

Please Click the video link below to view Jim’s Story

Jim Duffy has served as Briefing Liaison Officer with ABF The Soldiers’ Charity since 2010. He was the first person ever appointed to this role, raising awareness of the charity’s services to current and former soldiers, as well as their families.

Jim was inspired to join ABF The Soldier’s Charity after serving with the British Army for 22 years. He achieved the rank of Company Sergeant Major within the 2nd Battalion Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and tours of duty took him to Bosnia, Ireland and Kosovo.

He has described his role as “wonderful” for how it allows him to continue serving the Army community: “For 22 years I looked forward to the challenges of being in the British Army, enjoying life in The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. I feel the same way today working for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and understanding I am a small part of helping make a difference when a soldier most needs the charity’s help.

“Just like in the Army no two days are the same and I meet some wonderful, totally inspiring and incredible people from all walks of life, many of whom have become my friends for life. I consider myself very lucky to be where I am in my role for this charity every day.”