Overview
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer donated after the launch and hosted collectors and veterans at Downing Street as the campaign gets under way.
- The RBL says it is supporting more than 7,000 members of the Armed Forces community at any one time with expert advice and practical help.
- Last year’s appeal raised £51.4 million, and in 2024 the charity delivered £12 million in welfare grants to over 22,000 people, including £1.4 million for food and clothing and £5 million for housing needs.
- Around 50,000 volunteers will collect nationwide in the lead-up to Remembrance Day on 11 November, with poppies available across the UK and London Poppy Day set for 30 October.
- Veterans’ testimonies featured at the launch, including Shropshire veteran Gavin Sherry, who credits the Battle Back Recovery Centre with improving his health, confidence and family life.