SSAFA

Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) – Forces Help

What is SSAFA Forces Help?

The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help is the national charity helping and supporting those who serve in our Armed Forces, those who used to serve and the families of both.

Bernadette Grimes MBE Branch Secretary, SSAFA in East Yorkshire with Mayor of Beverley

SSAFA Volunteers with BBernadette Grimes MBE at the Bever;ey Food Festival

Who we help

One day’s paid service in any of our Armed Forces is all that is needed to qualify for assistance from SSAFA Forces Help. This includes those who serve in our Reserve Forces and anyone who did National Service as well as close relatives, widows and widowers.

Each year we provide a reliable, caring and trusted service to more than 50,000 people.

Supporting the Ex-Service Community

Although no two people have exactly the same experience whilst serving their country, they are all entitled to the support of SSAFA Forces Help if they face difficulty in civilian life.

Our trained caseworkers operate through a regional network of nearly 100 branches to support members of the ex-Service community. They visit people in their homes to learn about and help with the problems they face. Anyone who approaches us is treated with dignity and respect.

Housing

SSAFA Forces Help offers housing advice and provides accommodation for those eligible for our help. This ranges from our home for disabled ex-Service people capable of independent living to our ‘Stepping Stone Homes’ for separated families needing temporary supported accommodation. Our new ‘Homes from Home’ enable relatives to be close to a loved one whilst they recover from a serious injury.

Supporting those who Serve

Life in the Services is full of opportunities but it can also present individuals and families with tough challenges. SSAFA Forces Help supports them, whether they are serving at home, overseas or in an operational environment.

Our network of in-Service volunteers work on bases and garrisons in the UK and around the world. They provide invaluable support and care to our serving community, along with our Health and Social Work professionals.