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This Christmas, will you continue to fight against loneliness and isolation by sending a message of hope to a veteran?
Last year, the public rallied and sent thousands of messages of support to veterans struggling with isolation, often caused by disability, pain and mental trauma.
These words became beacons of hope for many veterans and their families during a season that can feel especially lonely.
Thanks to these messages, many veterans reached out to us and are now receiving life-changing support.
Some veterans needed mental or physical health care to help make day-to-day life easier. Others needed specialist mobility equipment to enable them to leave their homes. Many found a new community of veterans and families who understand the challenges of civilian life.
51% of veterans who were medically discharged feel lonely
source: ONS Veterans' survey 2022
But our work is far from over.
Requests for our support have surged by 54 per cent in the past year*. Veterans reaching out to us often have unique mental and physical health challenges related to their service.
Sights they have seen and dangers they've faced during their careers can have a lasting and devastating impact, leaving many feeling misunderstood and alone.
At Christmas, things can feel more tough. At a time when there’s constant pressure to have fun, even in a room full of people, battling loneliness can feel overwhelming. And isolation often wins the war.
Thousands more veterans who risked their lives for us still struggle in silence. Facing their own battles. Feeling forgotten and unable to reach out for help.
Your message of hope has the power to break through that deafening silence and encourage them to come forward for support.
The Making of the three figures
The military figures featured in our Christmas campaign were lovingly hand crafted by one of the talented veterans we have supported, and expertly hand painted by his wife.
Army veteran and Help for Heroes ambassador, Kev, discovered a passion for woodworking through skills he learnt with Help for Heroes during his recovery. What initially started as a hobby has since led to Kev being welcomed as a member of the prestigious Guild of Rocking Horse Makers. So when he offered to create the Army, Royal Navy and RAF figures for this year's campaign, we were over the moon!
Here are some behind-the-scenes snaps from Kev's workshop, showing these magical figures being brought to life...
Share your support
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Get support
If you or someone you know served in the military and are in need of support, please get in touch today.
Donate Now
Life after a military career isn’t easy. That's why veterans and their families need your support today as much as ever.
Spot the Signs of Isolation
For some veterans, isolation can be a serious issue, especially at Christmas. Here's how to spot signs someone is isolated.
CHRISTMAS CHARACTER RANGE
Shop our Christmas Character range in the Help for Heroes store. 100 percent of the profit provides vital support for veterans.
Christmas Fundraising Ideas
Elevate your holiday fundraising with creative Christmas ideas. Discover engaging ways to raise funds and spread joy this season.
* Help for Heroes Annual Report 2022/23.