Warblings Summer/Autumn 2017

SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017

SUPPORTING DISABLED PEOPLE IN THE UK

WWW.RBLI.CO.UK

HOW RBLI IS TACKLING DEMENTIA

WOUNDED VETERAN TO CLIMB EVEREST TO RAISE FUNDS

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WELCOME Royal British Legion Industries

The first half of 2017 has been a very exciting period for RBLI and I am pleased to say that the rest of the year looks to be just as busy! Across the charity we have won funds and contracts which enable us to help even more beneficiaries, and our teams have continued their hard work in delivering excellent services.

A key theme for 2017 is village development. On our village in Aylesford, Kent we provide a wide range of housing and care for the Armed Forces Community and beyond. As many of you will know, the past year has seen the development of the 24 exceptional apartments on the village for wounded, injured and sick veterans, as well as those veterans with other social needs. We are delighted that these apartments are now complete and residents are moving in as we go to print. The apartments, plus the Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal winning garden, will be officially opened on 15th September and this will see the completion of Phase 1 of our exciting Centenary Village development. Roll on Phase 2!

We are expanding our care services with a new 12 room extra care home and day care centre being built alongside Gavin Astor House with work commencing this autumn.

Another fantastic achievement comes from Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company with the win of a contract to deliver lineside signage for Network Rail. Our Employment Teams are also to be commended on winning the national Access to Work Contract, which will deliver support to disabled people across England, Scotland and Wales, helping them stay in work 13,000 in-work assessments a year.

Other highlights from the past 6 months include a new RBLI website, which you can view at rbli.co.uk; our Aged Veterans project, which has reached 100s of veterans across Kent, and our campaign work to reduce the disability employment gap.

I hope you enjoying reading this latest edition of Warblings and learning more about the work of RBLI and how we are improving lives every day.

I welcome letters from individuals who believe they may benefit from our work, and also from those who already have, so please do not hesitate to write to me at RBLI, Hall Road, Aylesford, Kent ME20 7NL or contact us through social media: find us on Facebook as Royal British Legion Industries, and via Twitter @RBLI.

@RBLI STEVE SHERRY CMG OBE CHIEF EXECUTIVE Royal British Legion Industries

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CONTENTS 04

BBMC WIN MULTI-MILLION POUND CONTRACT WITH NETWORK RAIL

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RBLI TO DELIVER SUPPORT FOR DISABLED PEOPLE ACROSS UK

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TACKLING DEMENTIA

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APARTMENTS FOR VETERANS

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FUTURE EXPANSION TO ENABLE BETTER CARE PROVISION

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RBLI HOST SUMMER CONCERTS FOR KENT VETERANS TEA AND RESILIENCE

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FANTASTIC VOLUNTEERS

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STANNING RUNS FOR RBLI

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WAR VETERAN TAKES ON ULTIMATE CHALLENGE

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COLLABORATION KEY TO SUPPORTING MORE VETERANS DISABILITY AWARD WINNERS

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RBLI WEBSITE GOES LIVE

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PRAISE FOR LEATHERHEAD SOCIAL ENTERPRISE TEAM

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CELEBRATING RBLI STAFF

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WORKING TO REDUCE THE DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT GAP

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ANTHONY GETS FRESH START AFTER SUPPORT FROM RBLI

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SKILLS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

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VETERANS’ GATEWAY

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HELP US SUPPORT BRITAIN’S BRAVEST

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BBMC WIN MULTIMILLION POUND CONTRACT WITH NETWORK RAIL

B

ritain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (BBMC), RBLI’s social enterprise, which directly employs British veterans and people with disabilities, has secured a multi-million pound contract with Network Rail, the UK’s largest railway owner.

BBMC, the manufacturing division of Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI), is now set to become the sole lineside signage provider for Network Rail, which owns the majority of the British rail network.

Currently, BBMC, which has provided signs for the rail company for more than 25 years, employs 120 people – more than 70% of whom are ex-service personnel, or have a physical or mental disability.

Director of BBMC, Geoff Streetley, said it is important to recognise the benefits in purchasing from social enterprises.

He added: “As we are solely a not-for-profit enterprise, any surplus we make is immediately reinvested back into the company to give ex-service personnel and people with disabilities the opportunity to find sustained and rewarding employment – whether that is directly through BBMC or through the various employment services we offer at RBLI.” “We are appreciative of Network Rail for recognising the knowledge, technical ability and the hard-working attitude of a commercially successful group of people who can be too often pushed aside in the world of work.”

This announcement comes just weeks after BBMC reached a significant milestone in its history, as for the first time it amassed a £5 million turnover in a single year. The social enterprise employs 16 people in its signs team who produce up to 40,000 signs of varying sizes each year.

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TIM’S STORY

Former Royal Engineer Tim Brown, who was diagnosed with PTSD after serving the Armed Forces for 23 years, joined BBMC as a team leader in 2016.

He said: “I had reached a point in my lorry driving job where I realised I couldn’t do it any longer because of my diagnosis of PTSD and other physical issues,” said Tim. “So I found RBLI at a really good time in my life.

“I have done things and seen things in my life that most people wouldn’t dream of, and to come somewhere like this – it’s peaceful, calm and safe – and to be part of that is brilliant.

“I do think there are people here who may find it difficult to sustain a mainstream job, outside of RBLI – here disabilities are catered for and people are cared for.

“Without them I would be finding it difficult myself to find a job that I could hold down. It’s an amazing place to work because everybody looks after each other and cares about each other, from the very top to the bottom.”

“I come to work with a smile – I never did that when I was doing any other job, which says it all really.”

“Without RBLI I would be finding it difficult myself to find a job that I could hold down.”

Tim Brown, Former Royal Engineer

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RBLI TO DELIVER SUPPORT FOR DISABLED PEOPLE ACROSS UK In addition to BBMC’s success, RBLI’s employment division also secured a national, multi-million pound government contract in which they will deliver a scheme which will support people with disabilities in the workplace across the whole of England, Scotland and Wales.

RBLI will now deliver the Department for Work and Pensions’ £6 million Access to Work programme under which they will provide specialised assessments for people with physical disabilities to help them sustain employment.

The charity will manage a supply chain of partners in order to extend its current Access to Work delivery from south England to the whole of Great Britain.

RBLI has been delivering Access to Work across Southern England, London and the Home Counties for five years, helping almost 30,000 disabled people to continue working.

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The charity plans to introduced technology and streamline the delivery process to enhance the service, including the introduction of new monitoring systems which will enable customers to track the progress of their appointments and reports.

Minister for Disabled People, Penny Mordaunt MP, who toured RBLI’s Aylesford village in December to witness the charity’s services first-hand, said working with RBLI will only go to help more disabled people sustain employment.

She added: “Almost 300,000 disabled people have secured work in the last year alone, but it is vital that those individuals can sustain their employment.

For this to happen we must work to create equal opportunities in the workplace, giving everybody the best possible chance to succeed.

“RBLI and the Access to Work programme can help lead this change.”

“Almost 300,000 disabled people have secured work in the last year alone, but it is vital that those individuals can sustain their employment.”

Minister for Disabled People, Penny Mordaunt MP

Director of RBLI Employment Steve Woodward, who leads an experienced team of workplace assessors comprising a range of health professionals, said the new contract offers a real opportunity to help disabled people in the workplace and to position RBLI, as a national provider, at the forefront of specialist disability support services.

He added: “The in-depth assessments provide practical guidance to both employees and their employers to help them overcome work-related needs as a result of their health condition or disability.

“This not only maximises working potential and productivity, but also supports those who may otherwise find it difficult to sustain employment, to progress their careers in what can often be a very competitive environment.”

Elizabeth Kwarteng-Amaning, who struggled to read or write until the age of 15 due to severe dyslexia,

received work-place support from RBLI and now heads up her own charitable organisation helping others with dyslexia into work.

The founder of Aspire2inspire Dyslexia said: “I have always had a great ambition to help people with dyslexia although ironically it is the condition which held me back from putting those ideas in practice.

“However the RBLI assessor assigned to me was an inspiration. He knew immediately what support I could receive which would allow me to develop my organisation.

“Within days I received a full report outlining all the help that was available to me and how to access it, I now have one-to-one support and speech recognition equipment which has helped me tremendously.

“Without RBLI and the Access to Work programme there is no way this could have been possible.”

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TACKLING DEMENTIA As we see dementia becoming an ever-increasing issue, RBLI is proud to announce they will provide specialised dementia training to their 120-strong nursing workforce based in Kent, following a government grant, in order to tackle the growing lack of care for dementia patients.

The military and disability charity are set to receive £350,000 for the programme which will be delivered

by Dementia Care Matters and will see all of those who care for elderly veterans in RBLI’s Aylesford village receive year-long dementia care training – while more than 30 staff members will receive university-standard tuition.

Supported by the Aged Veterans Fund, funded by the Chancellor using LIBOR funds , the programme will also train three additional nurses. Two of the nurses will then move into refurbished accommodation, 8

financed by the grant, on the charity’s village before becoming ambassadors of the programme following its completion late next year.

This is the latest in a series of developments by RBLI which will ensure the expansion of the charity’s dynamic and integrated village environment, where first-class modern care services are available to veterans and their families and people with disabilities.

Director of RBLI Living James Rudoni, who will take part in the programme alongside the charity’s other directors, said the programme offers a great opportunity to tackle the ever-increasing dementia care problem whilst also creating a ‘culture of care’ within the organisation’s village.

He added: “Dementia is fast becoming the most significant medical issue of our time and as a result

the care industry must take necessary measures now to tackle it but, due to the closure of care homes and a severe shortage in nursing staff nationwide, very few care providers are in a position to take those measures.”

“However, we want to change that. This programme will enable RBLI to offer holistic care packages to those most in need, with all areas of the organisation involved – from the senior management team to the skilled carers who work directly with the patients on a daily basis.”

In 2015, in Kent, approximately 21,000 people over the age of 65 were predicted to have dementia – this figure is said to rise to around 25,000 by 2020.

Elizabeth Court, more than 25% have dementia or struggle with dementia-like symptoms.

James also added “This training programme, in which all participants will have the opportunity to be academically assessed, will enable RBLI to give our carers a comprehensive understanding of the condition, resulting in an exemplary standard of care and thus a better quality of life for those who are suffering with it.”

“We thank the Aged Veterans Fund for helping us to be at the forefront in the battle against dementia.”

Of the residents in RBLI’s nursing home and assisted living accommodation, Gavin Astor House and Queen 9

APARTMENTS FOR VETERANS

Following the completion of RBLI’s brand new 24 apartments which are designed specifically for wounded, injured or sick veterans, or those at risk of homelessness, residents are now beginning to settle into their new homes.

Alex Stringer, who sustained life-changing injuries after stepping on an IED during a tour of Afghanistan in 2013 aged just 22, has now begun to settle into his new home after moving in at the beginning of June.

After rehabilitation, the triple amputee found himself in difficulty before the move after his marriage began to break down in 2016. However, the 26-year-old, who served in the Royal Logistic Corps, said the apartments have provided him with a “fresh start” and he now has a new found sense of independence.

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“I ended up moving out of the family home and into a place which wasn’t fully adapted for me – it was suitable for my needs but it was quite it was expensive in regards to rent,” he said.

“I then reached out for help and was pointed out to Royal British Legion Industries who said they had an opportunity in Aylesford for a new build of a property that is properly adapted and suitable for my needs.

“I came down to have a look and it was perfect for myself, and with being able to get out and about with the kids, it was a no brainer really from that point onwards.

“One of the things that really appealed to me about this place was that the little things had been considered in regards to disability: the hard floors in the hallways which helps with the use of wheelchairs; the lighter doors and the wider frames; and the

Photo credit: Andy Bate, BLESMA wet rooms as well – everything in there has been considered. Most places you go to everything is at a certain height for people who walk around, but here it’s all been considered.”

Martin, another resident, who moved into the apartments with his wife Mia, served in the Royal Green Jackets from 1974 to 1977, during which time he toured Northern Ireland.

Just one month after leaving the Army, Martin was in a horrendous lorry accident which resulted in the loss of his leg, which he said devastated his life.

Despite securing employment in London until 2004, Martin once again found himself facing difficulties when he was injured for a second time.

“I had a bad accident at work which left me totally unemployable. I was having operations for at least five years on my neck and my shoulder. It impacted

amazingly on our finances that I had saved up over the years. I just didn’t know where I was going. I was taking one step forward and two steps backwards – I just didn’t see the horizon coming anymore – it was like a black hole.

“But then suddenly… I end up here, with the Royal British Legion Industries – an absolutely amazing place. I can only say that this [the apartments] is a palace compared to how we were living before.

“Not only have RBLI helped us with this property but they have set me up with an opportunity to go on the LifeWorks programme which is going to give me a stepping stone to getting employment and active within the community again, which I am absolutely overwhelmed about – I am thoroughly looking forward to it.”

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FUTURE EXPANSION TO ENABLE BETTER CARE PROVISION Over the past 100 years, RBLI’s Aylesford village has grown exponentially, giving rise to more and more opportunities to offer housing and care to those most in need. Continuing along this path, the charity is pleased to announce the expansion of the village’s nursing home Gavin Astor House.

‘Project Evolve’ will first see the high dependency nursing home extended to offer a new 12 room day care centre, offering greater flexibility to veterans who do not want to, or are not ready to, move permanently into a care home but still require care during the day.

This stage of the expansion will be ideal for veterans and families who are not able to shoulder the burden of full-time care costs.

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RBLI also understands that the livelihood, independence and sense of wellbeing care home residents have relies not solely on the care they receive, but also on the environment in which they live.

Because of this, the second part of the expansion will see a new conservatory, family room, hair salon and garden added to the home. This will provide space for residents to take part in health and wellbeing activities, physiotherapy sessions, film afternoons or just to spend time outside with visiting friends and family members – even if they are bedbound. This expansion will ensure all residents have the right space to spend time with their loved ones, providing peace in an otherwise stressful world.

RBLI HOSTS SUMMER CONCERTS FOR KENT VETERANS RBLI prides itself on being able to help the national community: veterans and people with disabilities across the UK. However, the charity also holds the local community around its head office in Aylesford, Kent, very much in its heart.

In order to continue the on-going relationship with the local veteran and wider community, the charity held two events at the commemorative Garden of Honour in the heart of the organisation’s village.

Firstly, RBLI held a special music concert featuring the Kent Police Band after receiving financial support from local councillors and organisations. Five local Aylesford councillors pledged their support for the charity’s event by donating their annual ‘microgrant’ – a sum of £200 used to assist with community projects and events. Other backers were Paddock

Wood and Bradley masonic lodges and local green waste management company Kent Enviropower who donate £1,000 each year to Kent charities.

Aylesford Parish Councillor Trevor Walker, who pledged his micro-grant, said it is vital that events are supported by local authorities.

He added: “Royal British Legion Industries do fantastic work in helping veterans in the Aylesford and wider Kent area through the range of services they provide, which is why the Parish Council is proud to support them in their hosting of this event.”

The second event, “Last night of the Proms”, which was held the following month, featured a classical band and, much like the first, was warmly welcomed by veterans and the wider community.

TEA & RESILIENCE SUPPORT At the beginning of 2017, RBLI held a number of events in aid of vulnerable individuals who can often face challenges during the darker months.

speakers addressed the room, including RBLI’s Head of Workplace Psychology Sharon Patmore who spoke about the importance of mental wellbeing.

On selected days, RBLI held free Tea and Resilience events on its Aylesford village. Attendees had the chance to listen to motivational speakers, chat with a local mental health team or have a go at a new game – all while meeting new friends and beating the winter blues.

She said: “In the winter there is less daylight, it’s colder and often wet and windier, so we tend to stay indoors in the warm, doing less. And the less we do, the less we want to do – and so the vicious cycles begin.

Those who attended were left inspired, particularly following the inaugural event, where a mix of motivational

“Therefore, what is vitally important is that we continue to encourage those who may be facing challenges due to the weather to leave the house and attend social events with others who are in a similar situation.”

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FANTASTIC SUPPORT FROM RBLI VOLUNTEERS

320

INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEERS

21%

10,000+

HOURS OF SUPPORT

OF OUR VOLUNTEERS REPORT THEY HAVE A DISABILITY

VOLUNTEER AGE RANGE 15-19 YRS 20-29 YRS

11%

17%

VALERO VOLUNTEERS 14

30-39 YRS 40-49 YRS

9%

17%

50-59 YRS 60-69 YRS 70-79 YRS

16%

17%

10%

BRITISH GAS VOLUNTEERS

80+ YRS

3%

CELEBRATING OUR VOLUNTEERS AT THE VOLUNTEER CHEER - MAY 2017

GILL’S VOLUNTEERING STORY Gill began volunteering with RBLI after retiring a few years earlier. She has used her skills, expertise and personable nature across the organisation to provide invaluable support to RBLI’s clients and beneficiaries.

“I had worked for 20 years in publishing,” she said.

“After being made redundant I worked with a local Optician as a Receptionist and Administrator, a welcome change from the stressful world of Publishing!

I moved to Scotland for several years and ran a Bed and Breakfast in the Highlands. My work had always been varied and involved working with people so I really enjoyed having people from all around the world in my home.

On my return to Kent, and now being fully retired, I rebuilt my life and social contacts. My first contact with RBLI was at a stall set up outside of Waitrose.

I signed up to have the grand tour and after being

shown around and seeing everything RBLI do, I knew instantly that I wanted to try volunteering here.

I have now been volunteering at RBLI for over 2 years and have had the opportunity to get involved with various departments including Mountbatten Pavilion and reception. At the moment I am enjoying my role within the Property Services team, supporting them by undertaking a variety of clerical tasks such as reorganising filing systems.

Volunteering at RBLI has helped me to structure my week, meet people of all ages, and has enabled me to utilise my skills to support others, which means a lot to me. I feel valued and thanked for what I do and greatly enjoy the laughter and fun we have whilst working hard.

I am so pleased to be volunteering here and I would encourage anyone to get involved and have a go.

You will get more out of it than you think.”

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STANNING RUNS FOR RBLI In April, RBLI was kindly represented by double Olympic gold medal winner Major Heather Stanning MBE as she ran the London marathon, raising a phenomenal £6300 in the process – all of which will go directly to helping ex-service personnel and people with disabilities find sustained employment and providing vital housing care.

The former GB rower, who won gold at London 2012 and Rio 2016, completed the gruelling 26 mile challenge in just 3 hours and 32 two minutes.

Heather, who following her sporting retirement returned to her day-job in the Army where she recently reached the rank of Major, said that the thought of raising money for such a worthwhile charity helped her get through the latter stages of the race.

Speaking shortly after the race she added: “Having been an endurance athlete, my cardiovascular system is in pretty good shape but running for that length of time certainly takes its toll on the body.

“At mile 20, I realised how gruelling the next 6 miles were going to be, however seeing the supporters from RBLI and the rest of the crowd cheer me on definitely helped me to push on.

“On a personal level, I’m incredibly proud to have completed my first marathon but I’m also so pleased to know that I have raised money for a charity which has become very close to my heart.

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“To know that the money I helped raise will go directly to helping veterans and those with disabilities find rewarding employment or important housing care is a very special feeling.”

Following the race, Heather’s attention then turned to an online silent auction where unique items were available to bidders including signed race suits from the London and Rio Olympics, a day out to the RBLI village and factory which Heather toured earlier in the year, and a private rowing session with her and former rowing partner Helen Glover MBE. RBLI’s Director of Strategic Development Lisa Farmer said the charity is incredibly grateful to have received the support of Heather.

She added: “Heather has done fantastically well in raising money for RBLI. Everything she has raised will go directly to helping former members of the British Armed Forces and people with disabilities receive vital housing care and employment support to help them get their lives back on track.

“This may be through our veteran employment support programme, LifeWorks, our various work programmes targeting the long-term unemployed, or our social enterprise, Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, which employs more than 100 people – 70% of whom have a service connection, disability or both.”

WAR VETERAN TAKES ON THE ULTIMATE CHALLENGE RBLI is proud to announce that disabled war veteran and BBMC sign maker Anil Gurung will climb to Mt Everest’s Base Camp to raise money in aid of the charity this November.

Former Gurkha Anil was posted to fight alongside the British Army in Afghanistan in 2009 where, just 20 days before the end of his tour, he stepped on an IED resulting in the loss of his right leg below the knee.

The 29-year-old, originally from Nepal, now works in RBLI’s social enterprise Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company – alongside a number of former ex-Gurkhas. He will travel to his native country to take on the world’s highest mountain – this is just one in long line of challenges for Anil.

In 2014, he won gold for Great Britain in Sitting Volleyball at Prince Harry’s Invictus Games in London, beating the USA 3-0 in the final. Last year he competed again and returned from the Orlando with a silver medal, losing out to USA in the final.

If you wish to learn more about Anil Gurung’s Everest challenge and to donate to his cause visit www.virginmoneygiving. com/anilgurung, and to find out more about the services of Royal British Legion Industries visit www.RBLI.co.uk

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EXTREME

19

KM

LEVEL

DAYS

Support Anil by donating at virginmoneygiving.com/AnilGurung

Anil, who now lives in Maidstone, said his latest challenge, which will see him trek for up to 10 days and reach the height of 18,000 feet, will be a great test of his character.

He added: “It will be a challenge for me physically and mentally. I am trying to build my muscles back up after taking time out after the Invictus Games and hopefully I will soon be doing some trekking in Kent and Wales in preparation. But I need make sure I am also in the right state of mind.”

“I owe a lot to RBLI for employing me in their factory following the end of my service, so it’s very rewarding to know I’m giving something back.”

RBLI’s Chief Executive Steve Sherry CMG OBE, who served in the Army for 38 years, said: “Anil’s dedication to go above and beyond for RBLI is a testament to his great character.

“He continues to be an inspiration to all of us at RBLI, having for the past two years competed in the Invictus Games, returning with a medal on both occasions. Now he will spend months training to tackle what is possibly the most difficult challenge in the world – and all in aid of his fellow veterans and those facing barriers due to disabilities or health conditions. We are immensely proud of Anil and wish him the very best of luck in his challenge.”

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COLLABORATION IS KEY TO SUPPORTING MORE VETERANS RBLI delivered their LifeWorks programme at Help for Heroes’ Tedworth House Recovery Centre to six veterans who had found themselves unemployed.

Former Royal Marine Liam Thompson who spent 5 years in the Forces, found himself sitting at home for weeks on end after losing his job. However, the 29-year-old, said on the final day of the course that the LifeWorks programme had given him much needed direction.

He added: “It [LifeWorks] gave me a perspective of my own skills.

“My issue was that I didn’t know what I wanted to look for, but now I’m trying to make a decision. I’m going to retrain – that’s the best way for me. I’m seriously thinking about going into higher education.”

Major Alexander Reid, who spent 13 years in the Royal Artillery, was out of work for 4 weeks but admitted that the lack of structure outside of the military life was causing him issues.

Alexander, who signed up to the course with the hoping of gaining direction and an understanding of the job market, said LifeWorks had actually “refined his aspirations.”

In an unprecedented turn for the course which started in 2011, each of the veterans in attendance volunteered to become LifeWorks ambassadors which will see them promote the programme nationwide.

RBLI’s Head of Vocational Rehabilitation and Training Services, Iain Downie, praised the attitude of those on the course and their eagerness to not only better themselves but also their fellow veterans.

He added: “RBLI also recognises Help for Heroes for facilitating the course. Collaborations such as these, which should be encouraged across the military charity sector, allow more veterans to receive the help they need to get back on their feet .”

“I was very anxious coming on the course but I needed structure – I had allowed myself to fall out of routine.”

DISABILITY AWARD WINNERS In June, RBLI picked up a national award for its outstanding services to the employment sector.

RBLI was commended in the Disability and Health Employment category at the coveted ERSA Employability Awards in recognition of the charity’s range of employment services including the delivery of the Access to Work programme, which provides tailored individual support to those facing barriers in the workplace due to disability.

The charity was also nominated in the Innovation category, which saw RBLI’s transformative employment support programme for veterans, LifeWorks, commended.

RBLI’s Chief Executive Steve Sherry CMG OBE said: “Whether it is through our social enterprise, Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, or through the various services we provide under our employment division, RBLI prides itself on going the extra mile to 18

ensure those who require employment support due to health conditions or disabilities, receive the standard of help they need to find and sustain rewarding work.

“RBLI is immensely proud to have had our work recognised by ERSA, and we wish to congratulate all of those who were nominated for the fantastic work they are doing in the employment sector.”

Chief Executive of ERSA Kirsty McHugh said: “These awards celebrate the very best in class – the frontline advisers who go above and beyond to help the journey to work, the employers who give people a chance in the workforce and the jobseekers themselves, who often overcome a range of barriers to enter work and change their lives and those of their families.

“Their work deserves to be recognised and the awards give us an opportunity to say thank you and celebrate these achievements.”

RBLI WEBSITE GOES LIVE The brand new RBLI website went live in June following months of development which has seen the site streamlined to offer a quicker, more interactive service for the charity’s beneficiaries.

RBLI’s in-house Web Developer Ben Sutton, who spent countless hours coding the inner-works of the site, said: “The new, streamlined website will make it easier for veterans and other potential beneficiaries

to navigate through the various services RBLI offer.

Keeping it succinct will allow for users to better pinpoint where in the site they need to be directed.

Not only has it been modernised with a new sleek look, but ultimately it will increase the chances of the beneficiaries finding what they need at the touch of the button – which will make all the hard work worth it.”

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PRAISE FOR LEATHERHEAD SOCIAL ENTERPRISE TEAM BBMC’s Leatherhead factory, where more than 90% of the staff have some form of disability or health condition, was praised in June following a visit by HM Lord Lieutenant of Surrey Michael More-Molyneux.

Mr More-Molyneux, who owns historic manor house Loseley Park in Guildford, supports many voluntary causes including Shooting Star Chase and military charity SSAFA of which he is Vice-President.

Mr More-Molyneux toured the Surrey branch of the social enterprise before handing out awards for outstanding achievement to 11 members of staff who have been with the company since its Leatherhead factory was established 15 years ago.

Managing Director of Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company Geoff Streetley said: “As a social enterprise, Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company is committed to establishing itself as an economically sustainable, social thriving industry leader.

The factory provides a range of services including specialised printing, mailing and fulfilment services which has seen them supply products to a range of notable customers including the Children’s Trust, Mole Valley District Council and Vines BMW.

“The Leatherhead factory generates revenue of £600,000 per year. Any surplus is then immediately reinvested back into the company to allow us to offer greater opportunities to people with disabilities who may otherwise be pushed aside in the world of work.

Speaking to the recipients of the awards, the Lord Lieutenant said: “I congratulate you all for what you have achieved and for your contribution to the local Surrey community. If all people in the best of health worked half as hard as you do then we would all be a lot better off.”

“We thank Lord Lieutenant More-Molyneux for his visit and greatly appreciate his supportive and encouraging words.”

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CELEBRATING OUR STAFF In July, RBLI held their annual staff awards, celebrating the hard work and achievements of staff from around the organisation. Staff who have completed qualifications in leadership and management received

AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR ANIL GURUNG

their certificates, and RBLI trustee, Brigadier Tony Kerr presented the awards. Awards include the Chief Executive’s Special Recognition Award and Employee of the Year.

CHAIRMAN’S OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD GEOFF HUMPHREYS & ANDREW STICKELLS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD KATERINA SKORDOULIS, RENA PATEL & EMMA NUGENT

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR KIM WATSON

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR KATH HARRIS

MANAGER OF THE YEAR EDWARD TIDBURY

LEARNER OF THE YEAR JOHN AHBEN

FRIEND OF THE YEAR WENDY EMERY

BOARD OF TRUSTEES AWARD ROSEMARY KEANEY

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WORKING TO REDUCE THE DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT GAP Despite having formed originally as a military charity, Royal British Legion Industries has over recent years addressed the growing need for employment support in the disability community. This is part of a wider aim to address what is one of the biggest issues of our time: the disability employment gap – the gulf in the rate of employment between disabled and nondisabled people. A passion for solving this issue has led to RBLI widely promoting the need for change to government and other influencers.

The charity’s chief executive, Steve Sherry CMG OBE, featured in a report on the disability employment gap published by the Work and Pensions Select Committee. The report underlined the government’s aim of halving the disability employment gap – a 22

primary target of RBLI – and made suggestions on how to achieve this aim, after hearing evidence from a number of charities and businesses.

Mr Sherry was eager to highlight the need for wider, more experimental approaches in tackling the issue.

He said: “You should have ambitious, radical and different programmes out there and see what really does work. If we do more of the same, we will get more of the same, which is not good enough.”

Following that, RBLI took another step on the road to bringing the gap to the forefront of discussions about employment. On the eve of International Women’s Day in March, the charity held a luncheon event at the House of Lords where 100 influential women from the

public and private sectors discussed the challenges disabled people face in finding employment.

together as members of a highly competent, efficient and high-performing team.

Liberal Democrat President Baroness Sal Brinton welcomed esteemed guests including representatives from Lloyds Bank, Tesco and mental health charity Mind, as well as government representatives including Minister for Disabled People Penny Mordaunt MP.

“They have achieved a culture which is both passionate and dynamic. This isn’t easy to do. It can however be achieved and I wish many more companies and organisations could achieve it.

Baroness Brinton, who visited RBLI and toured the charity’s social enterprise back in December, said: “Speaking as a disabled person, I am incredibly frustrated about the amount of talent that employers are missing out on. When I visited RBLI before Christmas, I met many people: veterans with severe injuries, as well as individuals with learning difficulties, all working

“With unemployment at very low levels, disability employment has become the key issue of our time.

If there is any time in which we can solve it, it must be now.”

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ANTHONY GETS FRESH START AFTER SUPPORT FROM RBLI When he first came to RBLI for support, Anthony had after a long time on health benefits and 26 years out of employment, suddenly been moved to JSA, his health had not changed and in fact deteriorated over time, so the concept of being told he was now fit for work, he described as “terrifying”.

When Anthony arrived on RBLI’s ‘Preparing for the Future’ course, he was very quiet and shy. He soon highlighted his extreme anxiety at being out of his comfort zone, and reported that usually he rarely left the house. Despite the way Anthony was feeling, (he told one of the advisors that he wanted to run and hide), he stuck with the initial session and engaged where he could.

Often people who feel his way do not return for the next session, however, true to his determination to change, Anthony did. By the end of the second session Anthony said he was starting to feel more relaxed. He had ups and downs throughout the course, but never let this stop him participating. Anthony gave every activity his all, despite how hard he found some of them. He soon became really integrated in the group, supporting his peers and taking on the role of the listener.

On an early down day Anthony said: “No-one will employ me when they look at my gap in work history […] what if no one ever employs me”. Anthony admitted it was really getting him down, however through his own determination to change and RBLI’s support, he never gave up. This led to him becoming more confident in his pathway to work and he started to take ownership of his journey, attending other session in addition to the main course and signing up with another longer programme for when the course ended. All these were 24

choices he made in order to change his own life and not let his fears and anxiety stop him.

Anthony had fantastic news in early March that he had secured a job at Sainsbury’s – a reward for all his hard work and determination! He is now doing very well, and has even put in for overtime, which he would never have contemplated doing before.

Anthony says finding work had allowed him “to make new friends, given him a sense of purpose and made him feel part of the world again”. He says he really enjoys being at Sainsbury’s, and that they are a “great employer”, the staff are “all amazing”, and he feels “a part of the team”. Even better, working has also allowed him to reduce his medication. After Anthony told his doctor he felt he no longer needed it, levels were slowly reduced and has now stopped taking it all together. He reports he has had no adverse effects - “if anything it is much better.

“RBLI injected a boost in my confidence,” he said. “that has allowed me to do stuff I never thought I could before […] for the first time in years I have started to feel happy again”.

Anthony has made a massive transformation – he says “I think I have done well” – but everyone at RBLI agrees it is much more than that. He was 26 years out of work and had a range of health conditions, and whilst he did have support, it was his own driven, can-do approach, his determination to leave his comfort zone, his willingness to give it a go, his tenacity, diligence and his desire to make a difference to his life that enabled him achieve his goal.

“WE ARE PROUD TO BE ABLE TO OFFER SUPPORT... HELPING EVERY YOUNG PERSON TOWARDS THEIR OWN CAREER GOAL.” RBLI Training Manager, Adel Harden

SKILLS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE Across the world, young people are almost three times more likely to be unemployed than adults.

Research by the government showed that at the end of 2016, 11.5% of 16-24 year olds were not in employment, education or training. As a charity focused on supporting people into work, RBLI is working to combat this, and this year began delivering skills training to young people across Kent.

RBLI was awarded funding from the Skills Funding Agency and the European Social Fund to provide training to people aged 16-24 in the Kent area. In key towns, including Chatham, Margate and Tonbridge, RBLI is offering free accredited Functional Skills training in English, Maths and ICT. These key qualifications are vital for young people looking for work - many employers ask for this level of skill (Functional Skills Level 2 is equivalent to a GCSE Grade A*-C) when

looking to employ someone. Additionally, functional skills are a requirement for an apprenticeship (an individual must have achieved functional skills to pass their apprenticeship qualification).

RBLI are also offering other vocational qualifications for free, including Warehousing and Storage, Customer Service, Business Administration, Retail, Occupational Health and Safety and Food Safety.

RBLI Training Manager, Adel Harden, says: “We are proud to be able to offer support to young people who may not have previously had the chance to gain the skills they need to move into the industry they want.

“Our trainers and coaches are able to provide really personalised support, meaning we can ensure that we are helping every young person, in the best way we can, towards their own career goal.”

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NEW VETERANS’ GATEWAY RBLI is proud to be part of the new Veterans’ Gateway service which promises to be the first point of contact for veterans and their families seeking support.

Independent research commissioned by Veterans’ Gateway shows the military charity sector currently leaves two thirds (64 per cent) of veterans ‘confused’, while one fifth (20 per cent) of veterans are referred to between three and 10 charities before eventually finding support.

together we can do more and ensure no veteran is left unsupported and alone. We are delighted to be a partner in this fantastic project and we are committed to work with others to make it a success”.

Launched on 20th June 2017, Veterans’ Gateway aims to make this process easier by assessing needs at the first point of contact and connecting people with the right help when they need it, wherever they are.

The service has a network of over 30 expert partners, including Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI), coming from across the military and non-military not-for-profit sector. With more partners being added, the service can help on a number of areas, including: Housing; Employment; Finances; Living independently; Mental wellbeing; Physical health; Families and communities.

WHO IS PART OF VETERANS’ GATEWAY? Veterans’ Gateway is made up of a consortium of organisations and Armed Forces charities, including RBLI, The Royal British Legion, SSAFA – the Armed Forces charity, Poppyscotland, Combat Stress and service provider Connect Assist.

Funded by The Armed Forces Covenant, this is the first time a group of this kind has come together formally to deliver a service to help the Armed Forces community.

Steve Sherry, Chief Executive of RBLI, says: “Every charity exists to help, but Lord Ashcroft revealed the uncomfortable truth that a proliferation of providers in our sector can cause confusion about where to turn.

Veterans’ Gateway will make it easier for them to get the support they need, from whoever is best able to provide it. No matter how complex their needs, working

FIVE WAYS TO ACCESS VETERANS’ GATEWAY There are five main ways to contact Veterans’ Gateway, with advisors available 24 hours a day, seven days a week - many of whom are veterans themselves.

1

Call the helpline around the clock on 0800 802 1212

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2

Visit the website for a host of self-help i n f o r m at i o n a n d partner information at veteransgateway. org.uk

3

Te x t t h e m o n 81212

4

Live chat with an advisor online via the website

5

Submit a query using the online form

HELP US RAISE FUNDS TO SUPPORT BRITAIN’S BRAVEST 17 SEP

LONDON TO BRIGHTON CYCLE LONDON

Buckle up and join over 1,000 people in one of the nation’s favourite bike rides. Starting at Clapham Common, this beautiful countryside route will lead you through Mitcham, Carshalton, Chipstead, Banstead, Haywards Heath, and finally to the Brighton seafront having completed an amazing 54 miles.

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BEAR GRYLL’S SURVIVAL RACE LONDON

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ROYAL PARKS HALF MARATHON LONDON

Join thousands of runners in this stunning half marathon, taking in spectacular sites of the capital and four of the most beautiful Royal Parks; Hyde Park, Green Park, Kensington Gardens and St James Park. Show Buckingham Palace what you are made of when you ran past on your 13.1 mile journey.

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W W W. R B L I . C O . U K RBLI CHARITY NUMBER 210063

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