The Bolton Guild of Help, supported by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, is embarking on a yearlong project to identify and engage with Bolton’s ex-National Servicemen. These are some of the ‘forgotten’ veterans who will now be in their 70s, 80s and 90s. Some will be living at home and managing well, others might still be at home but with carer support and some might be in care homes.
Our National Servicemen served in some of the bloodiest post-World War 2 conflicts including the Korean War and the Suez Crisis. They also served in the Cyprus, Kenyan and Malayan Emergencies as well.
Many were also involved in the Nuclear Testing programmes in the 1950s and 1960s and, in recognition of their significant contribution to the UK’s nuclear deterrent programme; commemorative medals will be issued to them from the early summer onward. All nuclear test veterans are now being encouraged to apply for this award. Posthumous awards will also be made to next of kin.
The main objective of the project is to offer support to any of those veterans who are in real need or financial difficulties. The Guild is able to offer help for almost anything within reason. In the past we have provided emergency food hampers, white goods and furniture, help with heating bills, repairs to mobility aids, clothing and minor household repairs. We can also help with benefits entitlement checks and assist with debt management problems.
The Guild can also refer people to the Royal British Legion or SSAFA The Armed Forces Charity.
We also would like to extend our offer of help to any widows of ex-National Servicemen as well.
Our newly appointed Project Worker, Jill Webb, will be managing the project and she will be supported by our ex Royal Air Force veteran Trustee, Richard Davies.
So, if your father, grandfather, great grandfather, or any other relative, did their National Service please contact Jill via e-mail, jill@boltonguildofhelp.org.uk (phone 07515 164810) or Richard via e-mail, asshawes3@sky.com
Alternatively contact the Guild office Monday to Wednesday on 01204 524858. If you are a care home manager and have any ex-National Servicemen living with you, please do the same.
The Bolton Guild of Help has been providing support to needy people in the Borough since 1905.
