The military charity sector covers many organisations, some with specific, niche, objectives and others with a broader remit. It can be a confusing place for someone seeking help.
All the more reason, then, for charities to work closely together to maximise their effect – a great example being the working relationship between the RNA and RNRMC.
The RNA took the major step of moving from a subscriptions-based model to voluntary donations in 2021, a development that was only possible because RNRMC, the principal charity of the Royal Navy, agreed to cover the shortfall in the RNA’s operating costs.
The move was of benefit to both organisations, perhaps most obviously in the RNA’s membership figure – from plunging below 10,000 five years ago, soaring to 25,000 today.
That RNRMC subsidy covers all manner of costs and overheads, from wages for Welfare and Comms staff at Central Office to supporting particular initiatives, particularly around the theme of commemoration.
And what does RNRMC get in return? The charity’s stated aim is by “working with others, to provide the best support to serving and former members of the Naval Service and their families.”
Amongst those “others” is the RNA, which provides RNRMC with a direct channel to more than 25,000 individuals. Thus, while RNRMC puts a great deal of effort into raising funds for grants and projects, the RNA can put those funds to good use at grass-roots level, using its comprehensive network of Areas and Branches across the UK to improve the lives and wellbeing of serving and former Naval personnel and their families.
Recent examples include RNRMC covering the costs for World War 2 veterans to attend the Naval Associations Biennial Parade and Remembrance ceremonies in London last autumn – the funding comes from RNRMC and the ‘service’ (hosting the veterans and their carers on the day) is delivered by the RNA.
RNA Chief Executive Bill Oliphant said:
“The Royal Naval Association is grateful to RNRMC for their ongoing support, which allows us to concentrate on our shared objective of providing companionship, comradeship and unity to everyone with a Naval story, supporting them through life’s highs and lows.
“We believe that the close working relationship between the two charities is a force multiplier, enhancing the offering to former – and serving – Naval personnel and their families.
“We look forward to strengthening that relationship, and exploring new initiatives, in the future.”
