Scotty’s Little Soldiers has teamed up with Historic Royal Palaces, the independent charity that cares for the Tower of London and five other historic sites, to create meaningful experiences for bereaved military families.
The first experience in this new partnership took place on Saturday 18 October 2025, when a group of 80 from Scotty’s, made up of 34 bereaved military children and young people and their families, were invited to the Tower of London for a day of reflection, connection, and remembrance.
Historic Royal Palaces provide free entry to the Tower, access to a private space to gather, and lunch for all attendees. Families explored the Tower and its striking new poppy display, created to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. The installation features nearly 30,000 of the original ceramic poppies from the 2014 artwork Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red, reimagined by designer Tom Piper. The display forms a striking crater of red flowers within the Tower’s walls, symbolising both remembrance and the long-lasting impact of conflict.
During the day, families were welcomed by Yeoman Warders, took part in arts and crafts – including designing their own poppies with an artist – and explored the Tower’s historic grounds at their own pace.
The event aimed to bring bereaved military families together ahead of Remembrance, offering a chance to meet others with shared experiences in a relaxed, supportive environment. Following the death of a parent who served, children and young people can often feel disconnected from the Forces community. This day provided a valuable opportunity to reconnect with that community and with others who understand their journey.
One parent said:
“A fabulous day provided by Scotty’s that enabled my girls to have fun stress-free day, surrounded by old and new friends, all whilst being supported by an amazing team of people.”
Another parent added:
“It was a great experience and we’ve very thankful for the opportunity. The Yeoman Warders were fantastic, very welcoming and engaging. My daughter always enjoys the craft elements too! Was great to bring my mum (the grandma) along as well.”
Rachel Scott, Head of Service at Scotty’s, said:
“This was such a special day for our families. For many of our members, Remembrance can be a difficult time, and events like this help them to feel connected to both the military community and to others who understand what they’re going through. We’re so grateful to Historic Royal Palaces for this incredible experience and for helping us to create moments of togetherness and reflection for our families.”
Kim Klug, Community Partnerships Manager at Historic Royal Palaces, said:
“We are pleased to be partnering with Scotty’s Little Soldiers to welcome families going through difficult times for a special day out at the Tower of London. The Tower is home to a community of veterans today, and so providing support to bereaved military families is a cause close to our hearts, and something we are very pleased to support.”
The new partnership between Scotty’s and Historic Royal Palaces will see the two charities collaborate on future experiences designed to bring bereaved military families together in inspiring and meaningful ways.
Scotty’s was founded by Army widow Nikki Scott in 2010 following the death of her husband, Corporal Lee Scott, in Afghanistan. By working with Historic Royal Palaces, the organisations are helping to ensure that the children and young people affected by the death of a military parent never feel alone or forgotten.
