It is now a month since I took over as the Chairman of Cobseo and I have spent the time visiting as many members of the Confederation as possible, including a visit north of the border hosted by Veterans Scotland. I am conscious that the membership stretches across the length and breadth of the country and that there is much more to see. The impressions that I have gained so far are no more than a snapshot. Nevertheless, the visits and conversations that I have had have been extremely stimulating and encouraging.

The Service Charities which make up the Cobseo membership are remarkably varied and diverse. Their objectives, structures, size, concerns and requirements are all different; some are small and very local, some are huge and national. However, the unifying purpose of this divergent group is a passion for the Armed Forces Community that they serve. In my contacts so far, whether in head offices, in London, or in the country, that passion has been striking and tangible.