SSAFA backs free rail travel for bereaved Armed Forces families this Remembrance weekend

14 September 2026

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is backing a new free rail travel initiative that will help bereaved military families attend Remembrance services and commemorative events across Britain this year.

The charity welcomed the move as a meaningful recognition of the continuing sacrifices made by Forces families, saying it will help ensure travel costs do not prevent bereaved relatives from paying tribute to loved ones who died while serving.

Under the scheme, one next of kin of a service person who died while serving will be able to travel free of charge on National Rail services to attend Remembrance weekend events on 7-8 November.

Eligible family members have until 16 October to apply for a free ticket through the Defence Medical Welfare Service, giving more bereaved relatives the opportunity to stand alongside the wider Armed Forces community during the nation’s Remembrance commemorations.

Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, said: “Remembrance Weekend is a time for the nation to come together to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice whilst serving our country.  Bereaved families are at the heart of these commemorations, and the cost of travel should not prevent them from being there to remember their loved ones. 

“Extending free rail travel to next of kin will help more families attend Remembrance events, standing alongside communities, veterans and serving members of our Armed Forces as we honour and remember those who served.”

Jason Winer, of SSAFA’s Social Care Operations team, added: “SSAFA welcomes the Department for Transport’s decision to extend free travel to bereaved military families during the Remembrance weekend.

"This change ensures that those who have lost loved ones in the service of their nation can travel to pay their respects without facing financial strain. It’s a deeply meaningful gesture that properly honours the sacrifices of our Forces families ensuring they can stand together with the nation in remembrance.”

Minister for Veterans and People, Calvin Bailey, said: “Remembrance is an opportunity for the nation to come together in recognition of the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces. For bereaved families, this is a deeply personal time.

“We must never forget that behind every name we remember is a family whose lives have been changed forever. Providing free rail travel will help bereaved relatives come together and honour their loved one without financial barriers.”

Ola Ogun, co-CEO of Rail Delivery Group, said: "Railways have long been connected to remembrance commemorations, recognising the importance of their contribution during wartime. As an industry, we are proud to continue supporting this important national occasion by offering free travel to serving personnel and veterans.

“This year, we are especially pleased to extend that support to one next of kin of those who died while serving in the Armed Forces recognising not only the sacrifice of those who served, but also the families who continue to carry their legacy and honour their memory.”