A charity group that provides life-changing pilgrimage holidays to Service children with disabilities and additional needs has been awarded a grant by the RAF Association.
The Association awarded a significant grant to Group 187 (RAF), part of the HCPT charity that provides pilgrimage holidays to Lourdes in France for children and adults with various additional needs and disabilities, creating an environment of inclusion and belonging.
The grant will be used to help fund Group 187 (RAF)’s Easter pilgrimage to France next year, when the group plans for six children to enjoy the experience of this unique respite break.
HCPT has groups all over the world, but Group 187 works specifically towards Service children, with the mission of supporting RAF families who are often balancing the demands of an operational career and the significant care requirements of a child.
Sqn Ldr Ben Galvin, the current Group Leader for Group 187 (RAF), said:
“The generous financial support we’ve received from the Association has been instrumental in making the 2026 trip – costing around £30,000 – a reality. Our dedicated volunteers, representing all ranks and professions, not only give their time for the week away, pre-training, and home visits, but also make significant personal contributions towards travel costs.
“The grant has enabled us to substantially reduce these personal contributions, ensuring that volunteering remains accessible to everyone, regardless of rank. The grant will also support beneficiaries’ costs and fund an excursion to an animal park, always a highlight for both children and volunteers.
“2026 marks HCPT’s 70th anniversary and the 38th year for the RAF Group. Support like this is vital in ensuring Group 187 can continue its mission of supporting Service families for many years to come.”
Rory O’Connor, the RAF Association’s Charity Director, said:
“We are delighted to support HCPT with their next trip to France. HCPT’s goal aligned perfectly with the Association’s mission to support and enable the RAF community to meet the challenges of everyday life. Not only do we carry out this mission through our own services, but by collaborating and supporting other organisations to deliver essential services and assistance to their beneficiaries.”
