Support for Emergency Service Veterans.

We don't think so.  

Many of those who serve in the Emergency Services are themselves, veterans of the Armed Forces.  Back when we were first constituted we were asked by a group of paramedics whether we would support those within the Emergency Services, as they felt that we would understand them and what they were going through better than most.  We agreed, and over the years we have supported thousands from the ambulence service, the fire brigade, the police, the coastguards, mountain rescue...  

On the frontline you have to make split second decisions that are literally a matter of life and death and they can happen day in and day out.  And the consequences are often dramatic in more ways than one.

How often do we forget to thank those who saved and protected us?  We may be deeply grateful for our saving, and deal with the scars that our near death experience may have provided, but those who save and protect have numerous memories and scars that can live with them all of their lives.

Supporting this extraordinary cadre of individuals takes time, opportunity, patience and humour. Often the best support we can provide starts with creating a safe space for them to 'chill' that is outside their offices, wards, vehicles and stations.

And very few individuals will allow us to provide case studies or identify them in any way.  When they do they will form part of these reports; but in the meantime we are there delivering vital support to those who need it most - to those who clean up the mess of our lives and accidents, trauma and drama and sweep it all 'clean'.

Thank you - and please, the more you are able to donate, the more we can do to support those who support and often save our lives.

Links:

• More information at our website: