Anthony Ruback, Caseworker, London - his story

08 October 2019

Anthony joined SSAFA in 2014 after he retired as a management consultant. He spends about 7 hours a week volunteering for SSAFA.

“Not having a military background, I had no awareness of SSAFA.  It was at a First World War commemoration that I came across a leaflet outlining their work and legacy, and the central role volunteers have in delivering their services. With time on my hands having recently retired from professional life I applied, and within 2-3 weeks I had my interview to become a caseworker. I help around 20-30 cases a year where I find my skills and life experiences very helpful.  I work in a close-knit team where we all chip in with each other’s work, carry out home visits…we share the load”

Anthony has been a SSAFA Caseworker for 5 years. His skills and working life experience have been valuable making a difference to helping our clients, notwithstanding his not having served with the military.

When asked, why SSAFA? anthony said: 

“It’s nice to know you are making a difference and giving something back to people who’ve given a lot, at times to their own personal cost physically or mentally.

If you don’t have the military experience but you recognise what the armed forces do and are lucky enough to have spare time, it’s a great way of appreciating that. There’s an incredible amount of satisfaction you get from it.

Anybody who has empathy with other people, basic computer skills and who enjoys helping people can be a SSAFA volunteer.

We’ve got an ex-policeman, an artist, a lady who works for the Army reserve, an NHS specialist, and 2 managers at a local supported housing project.”

If you are interested in becoming a SSAFA caseworker - https://www.ssafa.org.uk/volunteer/caseworker

Anthony has been with London Central South for 5 years, after a successful career as a consultant. When he retired he wanted to get stuck in and help people.

“It can be frustrating at times, dealing with issues like a lack of housing, especially here in London. But being able to help a case from start to finish is so rewarding.”

Our favourite quote that incorporates everything that is good about SSAFA: 

 “One of the best moments as a case worker is when you get a client come back to you and thank you for really helping to make a difference. One woman we supported went on to become a case worker herself because of the experience she had, which was incredible”

Become a SSAFA caseworker - https://www.ssafa.org.uk/volunteer/caseworker