Events Guide 2022

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

MAKE THIS THE YEAR YOU RUN, TREK, GET ONLINE AND TAKE ON THE INCREDIBLE TO SUPPORT SOLDIERS, VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

2

Our Supporters Two of our supporters Yvonne and Yvette took part in a number of our events from 2019–2021 - Yvonne took part in Operation Bletchley 2019 and 2020, then completed the Virtual Frontline Walk with Yvette in 2020, before they both signed up for The Frontline Walk 2021. Below are their stories and how entering ABF The Soldiers’ Charity events have impacted their lives.

YVONNE’S & YVETTES STORY “I (Yvette) became involved in ABF The Soldiers’ Charity events as I am from a Military family, with nine immediate family all connected to one service or another.

My husband served with the Royal Signals as Regular and Reserve and we met when I joined the Reserves. My daughter became a Reservist three years ago (and so the cycle continues….).

Three years ago, we spotted Operation Bletchley online and read up on all things ABF! I soon had Yvonne on board, and the virtual events (Operation Bletchley and Virtual Frontline Walk) have provided us with new challenges that we have been able to share with our family. Taking on The Frontline Walk in October 2021 we met lots of interesting people it showed you don’t need a connection to the military to raise money to support them.

Together, the events have given us a sense of purpose and an incentive to go out and walk; Operation Bletchley gave us puzzles for our efforts and having to solve them all before the deadline set, while The Frontline Walk was totally different walking challenge – it was more leisurely and thought provoking while still achieving a good distance every day. Yvette particularly enjoyed hearing the stories from WWII at the site where it all happened. The event was very well organised, and it was a pleasure to meet everyone, we gelled as a group from day one.

We can’t recommend more highly getting involved in the year ahead, it is such an important charity, and we can guarantee that you will have a brilliant time.”

Contents Welcome 03 The Fundraising Army

04

The Cateran Yomp

05

Operation Bletchley

06

The Virtual Frontline Walk

10

The Frontline Walk

11

Running and Cycling

13

The Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch

15

The Medicine Ball Challenge

16

Local Events - find one near you!

17

Sponsorship & Corporate Opportunities

19

A Corporate Case Study - Phoenix Group

20

Volunteer Opportunities

21

Contact Us

22

Cover image: Arriving at Langemark on The Frontline Walk: The Western Front © Ed Smith

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

HELLO AND WELCOME TO THE 2022 EDITION OF OUR EVENTS GUIDE Our programme for 2022 promises to be our most exciting yet, and begins right away on January 1st. From taking on a winter codebreaking mission across the snow covered Balkans to our largest ever London Marathon team in October, the year ahead is ready to be filled with adventure and camaraderie.

For over 10 years now I have been writing these introductions to the annual Events Guide and we have had some real ups and downs over the last two of those! I can honestly say that seeing fundraisers back doing what they love this autumn, taking on the Yomp, remembering the fallen on the Frontline Walk or finally crossing the finish line at the London Marathon was an incredible experience and one that will live long in the memory.

To all of those who took part and to those who sponsored them a heartfelt thank you. It was a real reminder of why we do what we do, to challenge ourselves, make new connections and raise life changing sums of money to support soldiers, former soldiers, and their families in times of need.

Your support really does change lives and we need you to continue to be there for veterans. The Charity’s support has not stopped during the pandemic, and we have continued to support thousands of people, often getting funds to individuals in 24 hours, when they need it most.

We have only been able to do this because of support from people like you. Join us again in 2022.

CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW Here are some key statistics from 2020-21 that demonstrate the huge variety and scope of our work in the last year.

£3.9m

Grants to individuals

3

£3.54m

Grants to other charities and organisations

£2.1m

Supporting the military welfare ecosystem

In FY20-21 we spent £8.3M supporting 60,000 members of the Army family

The youngest person we supported was TWO YEARS OLD, the eldest was 103

We spend around £52,000 A WEEK on grants to individuals

We have supported the British Army family all over the world – in 63 COUNTRIES this year

Around 38% OF THE GRANTS we made to other charities benefited the serving Army

We funded 43 OTHER CHARITIES and organisations that provide support for the Army family

Together for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity.

Steve Oatley, Head of Events

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

BACK TO CONTENTS

THE FUNDRAISING ARMY IS GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH WITH MORE FUNDRAISERS THAN EVER TAKING UP THE CHALLENGE AND RISING THROUGH THE RANKS! AS A RECRUIT IN THIS ELITE FUNDRAISING FORCE, YOUR PRIMARY MISSION IS TO RAISE VITAL FUNDS TO SUPPORT SOLDIERS, VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

4

DO YOU HAVE THE DRIVE TO RISE THROUGH THE RANKS WHILST RAISING MONEY TO HELP THOSE WHO FOUGHT AND GAVE SO MUCH FOR US? ALL RECRUITS IN ANY OF OUR FLAGSHIP EVENTS START OFF AS A PRIVATE AND ARE PROMOTED EVERY TIME A FUNDRAISING MILESTONE IS ACHIEVED. HOW FAR WILL YOU RISE? ENLIST NOW AND OUTRANK YOUR MATES!

£0

£100

£250

£500

£1,000

£1,500

£2,000

NEW RECRUIT

L CPL

CPL

SGT

S SGT

WO2

WO1

£3,000

£5,000

£10,000

£20,000

£40,000

£60,000

£80,000

£100,000

CAPT

MAJ

LT COL

COL

BRIG

MAJ GEN

LT GEN

GEN

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

BACK TO CONTENTS

The ultimate challenge is back and the event has been awarded the title of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Cateran Yomp.

Are you tough enough to battle your way across 54 miles (gold) of rugged, Scottish wilderness in just 24 hours? You can also sign up to walk 36 miles (silver) or 22 miles (bronze).

Sign up with friends, family and colleagues for an unforgettable weekend whilst raising money for soldiers, veterans and their families. Whichever distance you choose, you will get to test both your physical and mental limits whilst trekking through some truly breath-taking scenery.

Taking place on the 4/5 June 2022 in the foothills of the Cairngorm Mountains, this is set to be our biggest Yomp yet as we also celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

JUST £80 (MILITARY) OR £99 (INDIVIDUAL), THEN AFTER 28TH FEB £115 (MILITARY) AND £135. (INDIVIDUAL).

COVERS FOOD, DRINK & CAMPING

5

EVENTS EVENTSGUIDE GUIDE2021 2022

BACK TO CONTENTS

Spittal of Glenshee

Ben Earb 801m ▲

GL

Meall Uaine 794m ▲

Meaina Letter 702m ▲ Forter

EN

●

● Enochdhu

SH EE

ST

Kirkmichael

Mount Blair 744m ▲

GL

TH RA

EN

E

LA

DL

IS

AR Blairgowrie

Kirkton of Glenisla

Bridge of Craigisla ●

6

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

DROP

ZONE

JAYCE

VELISCA

-------------------------------

HOW

IT

WORKS

GLAVICA

PALJEVINE

2.

----------------Start walking at your own pace to receive mission updates and codes to crack when distance milestones are reached.

HQ

-------------------------------

Operation Bletchley is a series of codebreaking challenges that you can take part in anywhere in the world using your phone or fitness tracker. There are currently five missions: Cairo (30 miles), Berlin (40 miles) London (50 miles), Paris (100 miles) and new for 2022, The Balkans (80 miles). Every mission comes with three levels of code to choose from: Junior, Codebreaker or Cypher Expert.

A real family event and something for all abilities.

1.

----------------To begin, link your phone or fitness tracker to your fundraising page.

7

3.

----------------Solve all the codes in your mission to decipher the hidden message.

4.

----------------Cover the distance and deliver the secret message before time runs out to complete your mission and earn your medal.

JAVOROVAC

TODORICI

VITOROGA

PRIBEJA OPACIC LANDING ZONE SEMENOVCI

*** NEW FOR 2022!! REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!! *** THE BALKANS | JANUARY 2022 | 80 MILES | 10 CODES

--------------------------

+

Receive an O.B. Pencil with your first donation

Raise £50 to receive an O.B. puzzlebook

A

REWARDING

+

Raise £100 to receive your O.B. buff

EXPERIENCE

+

Raise £150 to receive your O.B. T-shirt

--------------------------

+

Raise £250 to receive your O.B. commemorative pin badge

Complete the mission on time to receive your O.B. medal and certificate

Registration £10 £10. . For more information and to register for this event please visit soldierscharity.org/operationbletchley or email events events@ @ soldierscharity.org

It’s New Year’s Day, 1944, and Yugoslavia is in the midst of a civil war. Axis forces are targeting the Bosnian Muslims, Catholic Croats, and Tito’s Yugoslav communist partisans.

With this last group, there is hope. Tito has built a force of 220,000 resistance fighters. And last summer, they fought off a major German-led offensive that led to the deposition of Mussolini in Italy. The tide, it seems, is turning.

Last September, Brigadier Fitzroy Maclean led the Maclean Mission (MACMIS) to train Tito’s fighters and uncover the extent of Russian influence over the partisans. But as Maclean has left Yugoslavia to brief Churchill at the Tehran Conference, we need a new pair of boots on the ground - yours.

Go undercover, arrange supply drops, organise attacks and gather intelligence. But beware!

The Germans and Serb Chetniks know the mountains well.

EVENTS EVENTSGUIDE GUIDE2021 2022

BACK TO CONTENTS

8

FEEDBACK FROM OUR AGENTS IN THE FIELD 8 . F R I E D R I C H S T R Aß AßE S-BAHN STATION 2. RE I C H S T A G BUILDING 6 . R YKESTRASS YKESTRA SSE E S Y NAGOGUE

5. KAISER WI L H E L M MEMORIAL C H U R C H 1 . RAF GATOW, BRITISH ZONE

HQ 3. HQ SOVIET MILITARY ADMINISTRATION

9. FÜHRERBUNKER

10. GRO GROß ß ER MÜGGELSEE

4. WANNSEE VI L L A

7 . V ILLA SCHÖNINGEN

“Bravo to everyone involved with the storytelling, illustrations and puzzles, as well as the team at HQ who answered every Facebook query or comment quickly and with good humour!”

Agent Fay Franklin

“It was the best run event I’ve ever done.

Uplifting, challenging and so well presented.

Got the whole family involved and some friends too.”

Agent David Merrigan

“1st time taking part but not the last.

All round wonderful experience, we will see you next year... we have already decided we are going to PARIS!” Agent Kellen Craig (age 9) and his family

“It was just fantastic.

The camaraderie and support and being part of something big going on in the wider world.”

Agent Jackie Dodds

“The challenge to run 50 miles in a month was great! Also, my 15 year old son is physically disabled so I run the miles and we crack the codes together. It’s just lovely :-)” Agents Lou & Finn Eyles.

“It’s a great combination of exercising the body and the mind and raising money for a great charity. Keep it going. I reckon it will explode even more next year!”

Agent Helen Haywood

*** UPDATED FOR 2022!! REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!! *** BERLIN | JANUARY 2022 | 40 MILES | 10 CODES It’s January 1949. The Nazi regime has fallen and Germany is divided into four zones occupied

by British, French, American and Soviet forces. Inside the Soviet zone lies Berlin, which, like the rest of the country, has also been divided into four zones.

Cooperation between East and West has deteriorated and Stalin has cut off supply routes into

West Berlin. Without road and rail support from Western allies, a peaceful new year seems bleak.

Your mission is to walk, or run, 40 miles across Berlin making contact with key officials and decrypting their coded messages.

Can you crack the codes, and deliver the final message before it’s too late?

EVENTS EVENTSGUIDE GUIDE2021 2022

BACK TO CONTENTS

9

*** SUMMER MISSIONS UPDATED WITH NEW CODES - STARTING 1ST JULY!! REGISTRATION OPENS SPRING 2022. TAKE ON 1, 2 OR ALL 3 MISSIONS! *** CAIRO | 30 MILES It’s July 1942 and the outcome of the war is balanced on a knife edge. We need you to cover 30 miles on foot, travelling across Cairo in it’s blistering heat. Your mission is to track down an enemy agent and identify who has been leaking British Intelligence before the Nazis figure out that Enigma has cracked their coded messages and change their codes. Can you handle the heat?

LONDON | 50 MILES It’s 1941 and the threat of invasion is higher than ever. German spies could take down our telephone network at any moment, so we need your help to secure a new line of communication. Your mission is to test the 50-mile route from Bletchley Park to the Cabinet War Rooms in London. You must make contact with key agents to solve puzzles along the way. Can you figure out the code and deliver the message to Winston Churchill before it’s too late?

PARIS | 100 MILES It’s 1942 and the situation in France is at boiling point. The Nazi occupation has cut us off from our agents on the ground, so we need you to go behind enemy lines to make contact.

We cannot afford for our intelligence to be compromised, so you must move through the shadows and crack codes along the way to avoid detection. This mission is not for the faint hearted. Your success is critical. Do you have what it takes?

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

Walk 100km between 1st October and 11th Novemberr to commemorate those who fought in WWI and WWII Walk a total of 100km before 11th November. The Virtual Frontline Walk is a personal challenge that can be completed at any location and logged on your phone or fitness band.

Discover the war stories of the people of your hometown whilst also paying your respects to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. The 100km should be completed between 1st October and 11th November 2021.

Join our online community to find like-minded people for fundraising support and encouragement with your challenge.

1. SIGN UP

To sign up there is a £10 registration fee. Link your distance app or device and prepare for 1st October. We’ll send you all the hints and tips you need to complete the challenge.

2. TRACK

When you sign up you will create your own personal fundraising page. This is where you can record your walks, add pictures, stories and share on social media too.

3. RANK UP!

As you fundraise you’ll rise through the ranks of our Fundraising Army – so you can compete with friends and other supporters.

A rewarding experience Raise £50 to receive your Frontline Walk Remembrance cross +

Raise £100 to receive your Fundraising Army buff

+

Raise £150 to receive your Frontline Walk T-shirt

+

Raise £250 to recieve your Frontline Walk Mug

Registration £10. For more information and to register for this event please visit soldierscharity.org/virtual or email events@soldierscharity.org or call 020 7901 8913

10

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022 2021

11 11

Walk 100km, following in the footsteps of those who fought in WWI or WWII whilst supporting the soldiers and veterans of today.

............................................................................................................................................................................

Registration: £150 per person.

Fundraising: The Normandy Beaches and The Western Front - £1,250 per person, with £600 due by 31 July 2022 ............................................................................................................................................................................

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

THE WESTERN FRONT

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

05 – 09 OCTOBER 2022

12 – 16 OCTOBER 2022

The walk passes the infamous beaches of Normandy, including Utah, Gold, Omaha Juno and Sword Beaches, along with the Easy Company and Piper Bill Memorials and Pegasus Bridge before finishing at The British Normandy Memorial.

A 100km walk following the Western Front of WWI. The Walk starts at Lochnagar Crater, the location of the start of the Battle of the Somme, and finishes at the Menin Gate with the Ceremony of the Last Post.

THE NORMANDY BEACHES

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

For more information visit soldierscharity.org/frontlinewalk or email Amy Kenyon on akenyon@ soldierscharity.org or call 020 7811 3960

images © Ed Smith

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

BACK TO CONTENTS

12

“Walking in the footsteps of the fallen on the Western Front is one of the most humbling and privileged experiences of your life”.

Tom Saunders FLW 2021

“A must do for anyone interested in military history, who is up for a challenge and wants to support a Military Charity. ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is certainly a worthy cause for your fundraising.”

Yvonne Wright FLW 2021

“You will never fully appreciate the losses and sacrifices of all faiths, cultures and countries until you have walked the steps of the Western Front.”

Davy Taylor FLW 2021

“If you want to take just one challenge in your life, this is the one.”

Martin Walker FLW 2021

“The Normandy Beaches Walk was an incredible experience in the company of like-minded walkers and an emotional rollercoaster as we heard the history of the beaches and the stories from the D Day landings. The distance was a challenge but so worth it. A truly rewarding experience.”

Yvette Cooke FLW 2021

images © Ed Smith

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

13

RUNNING & CYCLING WITH THE FUNDRAISING ARMY With a large selection of running events to choose from, it’s time to lace up your running shoes and join ABF The Soldiers’ Charity Fundraising Army. Whether you sprint, run, jog or bimble to the finish line, the Fundraising Army is with you every step of the way. With specialist training plans and incredible support, it’s time to earn that PB.

MARATHONS

BRIGHTON MARATHON 10 April ...............................................

Enjoy a seafront finish in one of the UK’s favourite marathons! Take on the Brighton Marathon with the #FundraisingArmy team. With an amazing atmosphere and beautiful sea views, the Brighton Marathon is the perfect event for runners of all levels and experience. ...............................................

Registration: £30 | Target: £500 ...............................................

HALF MARATHONS

CYCLING

TCS London Marathon 02 October ...............................................

The most famous marathon in the world and a must-attend event.

The 2022 event is now open for registrations.

ROYAL PARKS HALF MARATHON 09 October ...............................................

This unmissable Half Marathon is one for the bucket list, taking in the spectacular sights of the capital and beautiful Royal Parks.

Places get snapped up fast so join up now!

RIDE LONDON – ESSEX 2022 29 May .........................................................

The biggest cycling event is back! Ride London - Essex 2022 is a 100-mile event on closed roads of the capital into the Essex countryside. Challenge yourself on the new course in aid of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity.

...............................................

Registration: £100 | Target: £2,000 ...............................................

...............................................

Registration: £40 | Target: £450 ...............................................

...............................................

Registration: £30 | Target: £500 ...............................................

We have dozens of fantastic running events you can take part in across the country.

For more information visit soldierscharity.org/runs or email events@soldierscharity.org or call 020 7901 8913

Visit soldierscharity.org/ride-london for more information or email us at events@soldierscharity.org or call 020 7901 8913

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

WE HELP WITH HOUSING Paul served in the Royal Engineers during the 1970s.

After leaving the Army he worked as a self-employed kitchen fitter but lost work when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Paul was left homeless when the council closed the caravan site where he lived.

With nowhere to turn, he and his beloved dog Wee Jock were forced to live in his car. Paul received an emergency grant from our charity and support from our partner, the Amicus Trust, enabling him to begin a new life in a council-owned property.

Paul is a former Army Photographer and won second place in our 2018 Photo Competition for his image, ‘Veterans in Scarlet’. He is now hoping to establish himself as a self-employed photographer.

Paul says: ‘I am now in my own home and have a garden where my dog and I can rest and enjoy our time together. I’m so grateful to ABF The Soldiers’ Charity for making my transition from homelessness easier’.

BACK TO CONTENTS

14

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

15

SUPPORTING ALL MEMBERS OF HER MAJESTY’S ARMED FORCES

T H U R S D AY 7 T H A P R I L 2 0 2 2 GUILDHALL, LONDON

The 15th Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch is going to be an extra-special occasion as it will be the Lord Mayor’s Platinum Jubilee Big Curry’ in honour of The Queen’s extraordinary service to this country and to the Commonwealth over seventy years.

The Lunch demonstrates the City’s support for members of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces and veterans through the three National Service Charities; ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.

It is a unique and memorable occasion as each year we also welcome a Royal Guest of Honour. The relaxed, informal atmosphere allows guests to mingle and network freely whilst enjoying a delicious curry lunch and drinks. Throughout the day, guests can enter the Prize Draw, bid on money-can’t-buy prizes in the Silent Auction and buy luxury items from the stalls run by the Livery Companies of the City of London.

The Lunch has raised over £2.5 million since its first apperance in 2008.

For more information visit soldierscharity.org/lmbcl email lmbc@soldierscharity.org or call 0207 811 3202

WHO DOES THE LUNCH S U P P O RT ?

The Lunch will continue to focus funding on the worthwhile theme of employability.

Money raised by the Lunch will support veterans by sponsoring them on the six month Pain Management Programme (PMP) at King Edward VII Hospital’s Centre for Veterans’ Health. This has been transformational in helping veterans manage their pain and helping them back into employment.

purpose is to provide education and training for Armed Forces veterans, offering them practical advice, guidance and specialist support to help them back into employment.

TICKET OPTIONS I N D I V I D UA L T I C K E T S £100 per person.

C O R P O R AT E T I C K E T PA C K A G E S Groups of 10 or more / from £1,000 (extra places at £100 per person). Our extensive

In addition to supporting the PMP, in 2022 the Lunch will supporting another organisation; LifeWorks. LifeWorks’

and expansive Corporate Packages can be tailored to your company’s needs. Contact us to receive a brochure or to find out more.

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

16

Learn more about the challenge and sign up on our website: medicineballchallenge.co.uk

“The challenge was great. It was a fantastic way to show the impact of how mental health can wear you down and be physically draining. By the end of the challenge carrying the ball around felt like a huge burden – exactly what stress, anxiety and depression can be like.” Luke, Scotland One in four adults experience mental illness, and many more of us know and care for people who do. Talking openly about how we feel can help.

This is where the Medicine Ball Challenge comes in.

Created by a serving soldier and former officer who have seen their families and friends struggle with mental health, the Medicine Ball Challenge is about starting conversations – encouraging people to speak freely about mental health while undertaking a 7-day challenge.

The challenge involves cuffing a 3kg medicine ball to your wrist for seven

days. It may not sound that heavy, but being chained to the medicine ball continuously for a week is a significant burden. The ball becomes a physical, visual and tangible representation of the invisible burden of mental illness that so many of us can experience.

The aim of the Medicine Ball Challenge is to raise awareness and encourage people to talk openly. It’s about creating powerful conversations. Taking part in this challenge could be transformative; and will definitely help ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and Combat Stress continue to support those in difficulty.

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

EVENTS NEAR YOU

21 JULY, WALES LANGLAND BAY GOLF DAY Four-ball, dinner & auction at Langland Bay Golf Club in Swansea 26 JULY, SOUTH WEST GLOUCESTER GOLF DAY 08 AUGUST, WEST MIDLANDS ENVILLE CHARITY GOLF DAY Charity Golf Day at Enville Golf Club 01 SEPTEMBER, SCOTLAND NAIRN DUNBAR GOLF Golf competition in the Highlands Inverness-Nairn area

17

For more information visit soldierscharity.org/events/ or contact your local office

03 APRIL, NORTH WEST MANCHESTER MARATHON Annual Marathon Event in Manchester - Official Associate Charity 28 MAY, SCOTLAND SOUTH EDINBURGH MARATHON FESTIVAL Marathon, half marathon, relay, 10k & 5K 11 SEPTEMBER, NORTH EAST GREAT NORTH RUN 25 SEPTEMBER, EAST MIDLANDS ROBIN HOOD HALF MARATHON

09 OCTOBER, NORTH WEST MANCHESTER HALF MARATHON Annual Sporting event 02 OCTOBER, WALES CARDIFF HALF MARATHON 09 OCTOBER, WEST MIDLANDS SHREWSBURY HALF MARATHON 16 OCTOBER, WEST MIDLANDS HOPE VALLEY RUN Multi-terrain run in Woolhope Hereford

01 JUNE MOUNT M’GOUN SUMMIT CHALLENGE Expedition to Morocco - Mount M’Goun challenge.

31 JULY PYRENEES ESCAPE ROUTE The trek commemorates the escape route used during World War II from Vichy France into Spain

THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, NATIONWIDE We’re looking for adrenaline seekers that are willing to take on an a Tandem Skydive; experience the thrill of a 13,000 ft fall and plunge down to earth at speeds of up to 120mph, followed by an exhilarating parachute descent. This will be something you remember for the rest of your life!

12 SEPTEMBER MOUNT TOUBKAL CHALLENGE 6 day hike to the top of Mount Toubkal in Morocco

TREK https://soldierscharity.org/ events/categories/golf/

soldierscharity.org/events/ categories/runs/

soldierscharity.org/events/ categories/walks-treks/

soldierscharity.org/events/ categories/extreme/

EVENTS GUIDE 2022 2021

WE SUPPORT ARMY FAMILIES Kirstie, the wife of a veteran, lives with a condition that impacts her mobility. Our charity stepped in with a grant for an all-terrain wheelchair, enabling her to carry out everyday tasks with her family.

Kirstie’s husband served for six years in the Coldstream Guards and undertook two tours of Afghanistan. On his final tour he was injured when two rocket- propelled grenades exploded behind him. He left the Army in 2012 and is now a self-employed gardener.

Kirstie has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a rare condition that causes her uncontrollable muscle spasms, migraines, sleep deprivation and fatigue. She suffered a serious fall several years ago when her leg completely separated from the hip and was told that she might never walk again. However, following a series of operations and through sheer determination, Kirstie is able to walk short distances with the aid of a crutch.

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity has provided Kirstie with a grant for an all-terrain wheelchair, which has vastly improved her quality of life. ‘So far, I have been into town, shopping, to the woods and on walks with the dog. I have been able to attend hospital appointments flying solo and have been able to go to functions which, before having the chair, I would have been unable to make. The nicest thing is to be able to pick my kids up from school on my own.

I had no idea that there was a charity out there that supported the families of serving soldiers and veterans. It has really been a life changer.’

BACK TO CONTENTS

18

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

19

SPONSORSHIP/CORPORATE OPPORTUNITIES 2022

As we remain in a period of uncertainty, providing help to our soldiers, veterans and their families in times of need is more important than ever. We need you and your company to help sponsor our physical or virtual events in 2022; or take part in them – perhaps as a company team – to help us continue to deliver support during, and beyond COVID-19. Our events portfolio gives you and your company the opportunity to take advantage of a selection of sponsorship, corporate hospitality and employee engagement opportunities.

SPONSOR BENEFITS

Choose from our range of events including The Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch or the Cateran Yomp and show how your company can rise to a challenge and demonstrate community spirit, whilst benefiting from:

• Supporting the British Army

A chance to demonstrate your company’s commitment to supporting our soldiers, veterans and their families in times of need.

• Team Building

Unique team building experience for employees to galvanise the workforce.

Phoenix Group were our Principal Sponsor for The Virtual Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch 2021

• Promote Health & Fitness

Fun and challenging way to promote health and fitness in the outdoors within your company and further afield.

• Brand Awareness

Be a part of an extensive event-related marketing and promotional campaign.

• Showcase products and services

Opportunities to showcase products and services, including event-wide sampling and promotion.

“Proud and delighted to have helped with such a worthwhile cause supporting our armed forces.” Martin Cavanagh, former National Account Executive, Thrifty Car & Van

TEAM PACKAGE BENEFITS

Become involved in one of our events to showcase values that translate across your business. For example, the Cateran Yomp has plenty of employee engagement opportunities for building team work, courage, determination and camaraderie.

We can also create bespoke packages tailored to your individual needs; simply get in touch to discuss your requirements.

To find out more please email kwildman@soldierscharity.org or call 0207 811 3201

In 2021 a team from headline sponsor Annington tackled the Frontline Walk.

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

C A S E S T U D Y: PHOENIX GROUP Phoenix Group were our first Principal Sponsor for the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch in 2021! With a member of the LMBCL committee from Phoenix Group and some from the company having attended a few Lunches themselves, they already knew what the Lunch entailed.

For the second year running LMBCL was cancelled as a result of the pandemic, so we were thrilled when Phoenix Group confirmed they would sponsor our virtual event this year. Our Veterans’ Commemorative Garden in Guildhall yard in June featured a phoenix rising from the ashes and so encompassed our Principal Sponsor at our first live event for over a year.

“We were delighted to support the 2021 Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch helping the three National Service Charities raise funds for the PMP at King Edward VII’s Centre for Veterans’ Health.

Phoenix Group’s purpose is to help people secure a life of possibilities and that’s exactly what the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch is all about, helping veterans manage their pain and return to work, so they have a life that is not limited, but full of potential.

We always look to play an active role in our communities, in particular focusing on initiatives that support greater inclusion and social mobility.

We have many former service personnel at Phoenix and a particularly active Armed Forces Network that is led by our employees. We see first-hand the diversity of thought and skills that former service personnel bring to our organisation, which is why we were particularly keen to support the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch.

We hope that all those taking part thoroughly enjoyed last year’s virtual events and know they contributed to a programme that really does change lives, harnesses skills and contributes to a diverse workforce and thriving community.”

Claire Hawkins, Director of Corporate Affairs and Investor Relations, Phoenix Group

PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

20

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022 2021

21

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES With the exception of a few core staff, our events are run nearly entirely by our amazing volunteers!

Without you, we would not be able to give the level of support needed to our amazing event participants, during our fundraising events and activities.

Cheering on our London Marathon runners as they take on the 26 miles around the capital

We are always looking for more volunteers to come along. You will gain new skills, meet interesting people and most importantly of all, you’ll be helping us to raise vital funds to support our soldiers, veterans and their families.

Whether you are helping to set up an event hub, handing out medals or cheering on our event participants. We have roles available nationwide. Here are a few of the ways you can get involved!

Supporting our Cateran Yompers across 54 miles of the Perthshire landscape

Find out more on our website events.soldierscharity.org/event/ volunteer or call 020 7901 8900 Alternatevely, contact your local office - details on the next page.

Serving up curry to guests at the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch

BACK TO CONTENTS

EVENTS GUIDE 2022

22

THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF EVENTS THAT YOU CAN TAKE PART IN ACROSS THE UK AND WE HAVEN’T BEEN ABLE TO FIT THEM ALL IN THIS EVENTS GUIDE. FOR FURTHER DETAILS ON AN EVENT NEAR YOU, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL OFFICE. Visit

HEAD OFFICE

soldierscharity.org/support-us

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Mountbarrow House, 12 Elizabeth Street, London sw1w 9rb T. 020 7901 8900 E. fundraising@soldierscharity.org

SCOTLAND ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, The Castle, Edinburgh EH1 2YT T. 0131 310 5132 E. scotland@ soldierscharity.org

NORTH WEST ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Fulwood Barracks, Preston PR2 8AA T. 01772 260 356 E. northwest@ soldierscharity.org

NORTHERN IRELAND ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Building 115, Thiepval Barracks, Lisburn BT28 3NP T. 02892 678 112 E. ni@ soldierscharity.org

WEST MIDLANDS ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Building V5, Venning Barracks, Donnington, Telford, Shropshire TF2 8JT T. 01952 674 369 E. westmidlands@ soldierscharity.org

WALES ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Maindy Barracks, Whitchurch Road, Cardiff CF14 3YE T. 02920 726 132 E. wales@ soldierscharity.org

SOUTH WEST ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Bldg 750, Picton Barracks, Bulford Camp, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 9NY T. 01980 672 337 (Bulford), T. 01392 496412 (Exeter) E. southwest @ soldierscharity.org

to order your free fundraising pack, full of ideas and support, now!

NORTH EAST ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Hipswell Lodge, Smuts Road, Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire DL9 3AX T. 01748 874 127 E. northeast@ soldierscharity.org

EAST MIDLANDS ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Chetwynd Barracks, Chilwell, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 5HA T. 01159 572 103 E. eastmidlands@ soldierscharity.org

EAST ANGLIA ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Building PO4, Room 6, Merville Barracks, Circular Road South, Colchester, Essex CO2 7UT T. 01206 817 105 E. eastanglia@ soldierscharity.org

LONDON ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Block 7, Room (G39), Wellington Barracks, London SW1E 6HQ T. 020 3903 6030 E. london@ soldierscharity.org

SOUTH EAST ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Robertson House Slim Road, Camberley Surrey, GU15 4NP T. 01276 412 673 E. southeast@ soldierscharity.org

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is a registered charity in England and Wales (1146420) and Scotland (SC039189) and registered as a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales (07974609).