Lancashire veteran urges people to send message of hope this Christmas

An RAF veteran from Lytham is asking local people to send messages of support this Christmas to veterans who are struggling with physical and mental challenges.

Last Christmas, thousands of people sent messages of hope to isolated veterans, as part of a campaign by Armed Forces charity Help for Heroes. For some it was the only card they received that year and for others it was a powerful reminder of their service and the support that is still out there.

These small acts of kindness encouraged some veterans to reach out for life-changing support. This year, the Charity has seen requests for support surging by 54 per cent* and is looking to encourage more members of the public to reach even more veterans with messages of support and encouragement.  

Ian Hewitt, aged 46, who is originally from Preston and now lives in Lytham St Annes, was medically discharged due to a spinal injury after five years’ service. He said that he understands how some of his fellow veterans will be feeling: “During military service, service men and women have a strong support network and a close-knit community, but transitioning to civilian life can destroy that.

“Coupled with physical and mental health issues, which can prevent them from socialising, Christmas can become a time filled with dread rather than a celebration”

Lancashire is home to around 49,320 veterans and Ian believes that there are more who could be helped by Help for Heroes.

He explained: “I know from last year that receiving messages from Help for Heroes supporters made a massive difference to some people and showed there are people out there who care. It also encouraged veterans to come forward and get support.”

Anyone who wants to get involved can simply post a message on the on-line Message Wall Send a message to a veteran this Christmas | Help For Heroes, Last year Christmas cards with messages of support were sent to more than 9,500 veterans.

Help for Heroes supports veterans and their families, from any branch of the UK military – regulars or reserves – irrespective of length or place of service, and locally embedded civilians who worked under the command of UK Armed Forces. The Charity remains at the side of veterans who are struggling, providing life-changing support for as long as it takes.

If you or someone you know needs support, go to www.helpforheroes.org.uk