Stroud District Council’s Armed Forces Champions have partnered with the Royal British Legion to urgently seek a new Poppy Appeal organiser for the Stroud district.
The Royal British Legion charity, which organises the Poppy Appeal every October and November, depends on volunteers to raise essential funds for veterans, current serving personnel and their families. A new volunteer is urgently needed to co-ordinate the local appeal.
Sarah Mills, the Poppy Appeal Manager for Gloucestershire, said: “We would encourage anyone who is interested in volunteering to organise the Poppy Appeal to get in touch with us to find out more. You will be fully supported in the role, including receiving training before the Poppy Appeal, and volunteering is a great way to meet new people, support your community and build your skills.”
Cllr Kate Kay, Chair of SDC’s Armed Forces Champion group added: “The Poppy Appeal is a cherished national tradition. The generosity it inspires from the public reflects the gratitude we feel for the sacrifices made by our armed forces.
“Losing the Poppy Appeal in the Stroud district would be a great shame.”
The council offers employees up to three volunteering days annually, and several officers have already committed to selling poppies. However a co-ordinator is still needed.
For more information on volunteering contact Sarah Mills, the local Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal Manager on 07919881131 or smills@britishlegion.org.uk
The Poppy Appeal is the Royal British Legion’s largest fundraising campaign and takes place every year in the run up to Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday. Funds raised Funds raised provide crucial support for the Armed Forces community, including housing, debt and money advice, mobility assistance, and employment support. The RBL also offers recovery programs featuring adaptive sports, adventurous training, and arts projects.
Stroud District Council’s Armed Forces Champion group is made up of elected councillors and officers who meet regularly with local veterans’ groups to ensure the needs of veterans in the Stroud district are met.
SDC’s housing service guarantees a face-to-face interview with veterans and their families for all housing-related matters.
There is information, including sources of local support including links to local veterans’ social groups which provide peer support on the council’s website: www.stroud.gov.uk/veterans