A Message from the President of SSAFA Devon Branch

05 June 2020

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF SSAFA DEVON

                                                                                                   1 June 2020                                                                         

Dear Branch Members,

I very much hope that this finds you and your families well and coping with the difficult and unpredictable circumstances in which we find ourselves.  Inevitably some of you will be feeling the impact and stress of COVID more than others and there are doubtless many who are both anxious and vulnerable. It is a real tribute to you and to SSAFA that you have felt able to continue so selflessly in your respective roles to deliver support to the Armed Forces community we serve.  I am also aware that in addition to your commitments to SSAFA, a number of you are also supporting the NHS Volunteer Responder scheme or projects in your local areas which is brilliant.

In the last couple of months we have had to take on many new cases, some as a direct consequence of COVID.  I understand the number is increasing and the expectation is that this will continue as the consequences of the pandemic are felt.  Life is certainly not going to get any easier in the short term and it is probably more important now than it has been for a very long time that we are available and ready to assist those who need our help. I do not underestimate how difficult this will be and the challenges and frustrations of delivering casework with which you already have to contend such as phone consultations rather than face to face meetings; long waiting times for VoS and grant approvals; and the shortened Form A.  Some of you will doubtless be feeling a huge burden of responsibility and pressure and may be questioning your ability to meet the needs and expectations of our clients.  You may also have personal issues with which you are preoccupied.  I do hope that if any of you need a break to focus on yourselves and those close to you or to just to catch your breath, you will inform Claire so that those who need to know are aware.

It goes without saying that the entire charity sector is facing an unprecedented challenge at this time when the demands on it have never been greater.  We are fortunate in SSAFA Devon that we are in a sound financial position, have a wonderful team of dedicated, hard working volunteers and a sound management structure.  I am confident that with your continued commitment we can deliver, as best we can and as SSAFA has done for the last 135 years. 

The great work you are all doing right now in such difficult circumstances is greatly appreciated, not least by our clients, many of who would be in a very dark place were it not for your efforts to help them.  I have kept the Lord Lieutenant informed about the great work that you have been doing and I am aware that he has briefed Her Majesty.  I attach a letter from the Lord Lieutenant in recognition of all that you have done.  On my and their behalf and on behalf of our clients, thank you one and all.  Please keep up the good work, look after yourselves and stay safe and well.

Andrew Ridgway

Lieutenant General Sir Andrew Ridgway KBE CB DL