The David Ellis Charity is proud to be an armed forces-friendly organisation whose purpose is to support armed forces veterans, their families, and those visiting Dorset. This includes supporting serving armed forces personnel and families living in and working in Dorset.
The David Ellis Charity provides:
• The advancement of health and the improvement of lives through free recreation, leisure, social welfare activities, education and training.
• Facilities for recreation and leisure-time occupation in the interests of social welfare to improve the condition of life, by providing a fulfilling, calming and safe environment, where peer-to-peer support and self-dependency are encouraged.
• The relief of veterans in need because of age, ill health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage by providing advice, grants and provision of items to encourage self-dependency in partnership with veterans and their families who live in Dorset.
The David Ellis Charity is a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant and, by pledging support to the Dorset armed forces community, demonstrates an enduring commitment to those who proudly protect the nation.
Contact Information
Dorchester
DT1 1DY
Support Offered
The David Ellis Charity delivers an established programme of free fitness classes and other health and wellbeing activities funded by grant awards, fundraising, and sponsorship at venues in Dorset. Exercise fitness and Pilates instructors are all CIMSPA-registered qualified fitness professionals, who tailor exercise classes to meet the needs of a range of physical challenges.
Once a month, walk leaders lead a group walk and a chat in the beautiful Dorset countryside at a variety of well-established town and countryside walk routes. Licensed Archery GB instructors can help veterans and families new to archery learn and enjoy the sport. As well as being a rewarding physical activity, archery can also help boost mental wellbeing.
A weekly veterans and families drop-in session provides veterans and families with free refreshments and the opportunity to chat with others who might have similar experiences. Veterans and families can relax and enjoy a chat amongst friends with free on-site parking and wheelchair access.
Qualified first aid instructors provide training and a recognised H&S qualification to support the employment of veterans, military spouses/partners, and their families, including cadet instructors and volunteers. Funding can also be provided for short vocational courses that enhance employability and facilitate a smooth transition into civilian life for veterans and their families.
Regular volunteer opportunities are offered at local venues and events to boost confidence, enhance CVs and job applications that can improve career options for the Dorset armed forces community. Volunteering also provides a good opportunity for peer-to-peer support and to build self-dependency.
