School visits SSAFA's Royal Homes Wimbledon

29 February 2024

Pupils from the Harrodian School, London, visited SSAFA at its Royal Homes Wimbledon, to learn more about the work done by the charity.

The pupils were conducting research to support their nomination for SSAFA to be the school’s chosen charity. More importantly, the youngsters took a deep dive into the work the charity does, helping them to connect with numerous worthy causes.

The group met at SSAFA’s historic Royal Homes Wimbledon, which were originally created by SSAFA as Homes for Officers’ Widows and Daughters 1899. These days the homes take men and women of all ranks. It is an inclusive, safe environment where apartments are allocated according to need.

The pupils met Sylvia Morris, Secretary of the Wimbledon division of the charity, and Army veteran Ian Thomas, who is a volunteer and fundraiser for SSAFA.

Ian and Sylvia spoke to the youngsters about their volunteer work, and why it is sometimes necessary for veterans to seek the help of a charity. Sylvia highlighted a recent case where a military spouse needed somewhere for herself and her two children to stay in an emergency. This was just before Christmas and they had no money, so needed food vouchers for Christmas Day.

Ian told the group of him and his ex-military pals exploits, raising thousands of pounds for charity while competing in the Veterans’ Banger Rally – a crazy drive to Spain in a broken down old car, with a team called Merton’s Militia.

SSAFA wishes the pupils good luck for their presentation and hopes to connect and share their message with more young people in future.

Sylvia said: “What a delightful group of students arrived yesterday to interview me. The group were so polite, respectful, thoughtful and sensible and an absolute credit to the school, and their parents too!”