Defence Discount Service gives back
As part of our continued efforts to support servicemen and women, veterans and military families across the UK, we’ve contributed a share of over £250,000 to The Army Central Fund, RAF Central Fund and The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity in 2021.
Since launching in 2012, we’re proud to have given a percentage of all revenue to these central funds to support projects and activities that aid the wellbeing of serving forces personnel and their immediate families.
While some funds have gone towards the Defence Medical Welfare Service (to support Armed Forces personnel and their families who may be receiving hospital treatment), others have gone towards The Warrior Programme - which helps individuals in the community develop the resilience and drive to succeed.
The Army Central Fund has also given a portion to RBLI Lifeworks Families, which helps military family members with career coaching and vocational assessments, as well as to the Union Jack Club to help provide disabled access and bedroom refurbishments for the famous Central London military membership club.
Tom Dalby, Defence Discount Service CEO, said, “We work to help those who’ve served our nation both at home and abroad, which is why we’ve been committed to returning a percentage of our revenue back to the armed forces community since day one.
“While the pandemic meant that many of us were unable to go about our lives as normal, the armed forces remained an integral part of the fight against COVID – helping to keep communities safe and playing a vital role in supporting efforts to adapt and respond to the ongoing challenges.
“From supporting defence medics working in intensive care units, assisting with the vaccine rollout across the UK, and aiding the national testing initiative; our members’ service has never faltered. Because of this, we’re delighted that our ongoing support is being put towards amazing causes via The Army Central Fund.”
The Army Central Fund secretary, LT Col Julian Panton, said, “We’re extremely grateful for our ongoing partnership with Defence Discount Service and for its continued support last year, and over the past decade. Financial backing from organisations like Defence Discount Service is an imperative part of The Army Central Fund, enabling us to help services across the UK provide dedicated, practical and immediate support for the Armed Forces community while helping to change individual lives for the better.”
Royal Air Force Central Fund Operations Manager, Karen Hansford, said, “Thanks to the invaluable donation from the Defence Discount Service and our partnerships with other health and fitness providers, the RAF Central Fund is able to provide more opportunities for serving personnel to access sports and physical activities. With the help of the Fund, thousands of personnel have trained and participated in hundreds of activities at all levels, improving their mental health and wellbeing.”
Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Leo Docherty said, “The Defence Discount Service has financially supported projects and activities that have directly contributed to the wellbeing of Armed Forces personnel and their families.
“This is a fantastic achievement, and no less than what our brave servicemen and women deserve. I would like to thank the Defence Discount Service and the military funds and charities involved for their extraordinary work.”