Dear Members,

We are very conscious that many members and their families will potentially be adversely affected by the current Covid19 situation.  This is likely to be particularly so among those over 70 years of age who are socially isolated.  We know and appreciate that branches will be doing all they can to provide moral and practical support to those who are affected in a range of ways, while abiding by government advice and directions over gatherings and contact with those who are vulnerable to the virus.  We would urge you to try to make a particular effort (wherever possible) to keep in touch, by phone, email or social media, with those who are in those vulnerable categories and are confined to their homes.

Here, at Artillery House, we are standing ready to take what action we can to assist both branches and individual members and although we are now largely working from home and outside normal office hours, we are confident that we can maintain a near normal service.  We are also working closely with the welfare team of the Royal Artillery Charitable Fund to ensure that we can deliver financial support to those who find themselves in financial need as a result of the crisis.

If you become aware of an individual in need, in the first instance please ask them to contact SSAFA or RBL. They can access funds not just from regimental charities but from the wider service charities such as ABF.  If, however they are unable to make a timely response, please contact your Branch Secretary or Welfare Officer to contact us here and we will liaise with the welfare team in order to release funds where there is an urgent need.

My very best wishes.  Keep safe.

Matthew Carter

Colonel (Retd)

Regimental Secretary