We recognise that the ongoing events in the Middle East and Cyprus may be affecting the RAF Family in different ways. You may have been affected directly , or you may be worried about loved ones. Whatever your circumstances, you are not alone. If you are a serving member of the RAF, a veteran, or a family member and feel you need support, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Our teams are here to listen and help wherever we can.
#RAFBenevolentFund #Support
If you’ve been affected by events in the Middle East and are finding things difficult, please know you’re not alone.
Our free, confidential Emotional Support Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you need someone to listen, we’re here for you: 0808 1751 365.
#RAFBenevolentFund
To mark #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek, we’re highlighting the vital resources available to our serving personnel and their families.
From the pressures of frequent relocation to the strain of deployments, we understand that military life comes with unique challenges. That is why we provide a comprehensive range of emotional support, including:
▫️24-Hour Helpline: Immediate support for stress, anxiety, or loneliness.
▫️Listening and Counselling Service: Safe spaces for adults, children, and young people.
▫️Headspace: Free mindfulness memberships to help improve sleep and mood.
▫️Relationship Support: Free counselling in partnership with Relate.
▫️Wellbeing Breaks: Opportunities to recharge at our seaside cottages or Parkdean Resorts.
You don’t have to face these challenges alone.
#RAFBenevolentFund
Today marks the 83rd anniversary of the #DambustersRaid.
On 16 May 1943, the brave airmen from 617 Squadron embarked on a daring mission: to breach the German dams Möhne, Eder and Sorpe.
Of the 19 crews that had set out on the raid, eight did not return. Today we remember the 53 airmen who never made it home, and honour their dedication and sacrifice for freedom.
Commander @mod_bfsai (British Forces South Atlantic Islands), Brigadier Charlie Harmer, met with RAF Benevolent Fund visitors to the Falklands Islands this week, including Associate Director of Operations Maria Lyle.
We are keen to work with the BFSAI team to further invest in support to @royalairforceuk personnel and families in the Falklands and Ascension Island. Plenty of opportunities were identified - and we are looking forward to working with the BFSAI team to progress them!
#BFSAI #FalklandIslands #RAF #RoyalAirForce #RAFBenevolentFund
On Monday 11 May 2026, a newly refurbished kitchen at the Airplay youth club in the Millennium Centre officially opened at @royalairforcebrizenorton . Supported by over £50,000 in station grant funding from us, the kitchen is fully equipped with modern facilities—including two ovens, induction hobs, generous worktop space, and ample storage.
“The opening of the Airplay Family Kitchen at RAF Brize Norton represents a significant investment in the wellbeing and development of our Service families. I am grateful to the RAF Benevolent Fund for their valued support in delivering this important facility. The kitchen will provide a safe and structured environment where young people can develop essential life skills, including food preparation, budgeting, and informed nutritional choices. These skills are fundamental in building confidence, independence, and long-term resilience." - Group Captain Louise Henton, Station Commander at RAF Brize Norton.
This space is designed to help Service families and young people develop essential life skills, long-term resilience, and healthy habits.
“This project will have a lasting, positive impact for local families and the wider Airplay community at RAF Brize Norton, and we hope its success will inspire other RAF stations to develop similar initiatives.” – Irene Greenwood, Welfare Programmes Manager at the RAF Benevolent Fund.
Photo credit: Crown Copyright
#RAFBenevolentFund #RAF #RAFBrizeNorton @royalairforceuk
We are thrilled to be attending the RAF vs Army @interservicechamps on Saturday 16 May! It’s set to be a fantastic day of sport and camaraderie. If you haven’t secured your spot yet, there is still time to join us and show your support.
From providing financial support to looking after the wellbeing of the RAF Family, we are dedicated to supporting current and former personnel and their partners and children.
#RAFBenevolentFund
Everyone may need support at one time or another; that’s where we step in to find the right support for you and your family.
This #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek, we want to remind the RAF Family that you don't have to navigate relationship challenges alone. From the pressures of deployment to the stress of frequent moves, we understand the unique demands placed on RAF couples and families.
If you’ve been finding it difficult to talk about your mental health with your partner, remember that opening that door is the first step toward strengthening your bond. To support you, we offer free and confidential relationship counselling through @relate_charity .
This professional support is designed specifically to help you and your partner work through difficulties in a safe, guided environment.
#RAFBenevolentFund
For 10 years, @royalairforceuk veteran Andrew struggled with severe OCD in silence.
It was only when he reached out to us that "the darkness lifted." Andrew’s journey reminds us that no matter how long you’ve been struggling, it is never too late to ask for help.
This #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek, we want the entire RAF Family to know they are not alone.
From our 24-hour emotional support helpline for immediate needs to specialist counselling for children and young people, and even gambling support, we have a range of services designed to help you thrive.
#RAFBenevolentFund
On Sunday 19 April, AS1 Caylum van Empel from @rafwittering took to the streets for the @manchestermarathon .
Serving for over seven years, Caylum chose to support us because he has seen firsthand the positive impact we have on the lives of serving @royalairforceuk personnel, veterans, and their families.
Whether it's for the community or a personal milestone, every mile ran and every pound raised ensures we can continue to be there for the RAF Family.
Ready to start your own fundraising journey?
Comment ‘Fundraise’ below and we’ll send you more information.
#RAFBenevolentFund
This #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek RAF National Service veteran Ivor Barnett highlights how the Fund's Community Engagement Team, and veterans Group Breaks have positively impacted his mental health.
📹Watch as he shares how we have helped him following the loss of his wife.
#MentalHealthAwareness #VeteranSupport #MentalHealthMatters
The first RAFSPA weekend of 2026 and what a way to start 😎
Club jumping, tandems, Langars own father and son flying and 7 second separation being counted on one hand 🤣
Epic 💪
If anyone fancies tandems with RAFSPA give me a shout 🫡
#rafspa #parachute #parachuting #rafbf #freefall
