Claire Robson
West to East London, 16 Bridges, 25 kilometres... One long day!
Fundraising for FirstLight Trust
Story
On September 9th, Lindsey Wislocki and Claire Robson will be taking part in the Thames Bridges Trek - 25km across all sixteen of London's bridges to raise much needed funds for a British Veterans charity called FirstLight Trust.
So who are FirstLight Trust?
FirstLight Trust support former members of the Armed Forces and Emergency Services who have nowhere left to turn. They break down barriers so Veterans and their families get the help they need. They help the ‘hard to reach’ Veterans as defined by other charities. Some can't cope, don't know what's wrong with them or are too proud to ask for help.
The military has a unique culture which is very different to civilian life. Those leaving the Armed Forces can find it hard to adjust. Sorting out housing, work, benefits and bills can be confusing and intimidating. Adjusting to family life can also be difficult. Problems build up and can lead to a loss of purpose and identity.
FirstLight Trust does whatever it takes to make that tiny difference between life and suicide. They show Veterans that they are valued. They give them back a sense of belonging. FirstLight proves to them they aren't alone or too different to fit into civilian society.
So what do FirstLight Trust actually "do"?
What is so great about FirstLight Trust is that they don't assume receipt of charitable donations. They self-fund - Their strategy is simple: They find areas in the UK that have a need for their services; then open a charity shop, include a coffee shop in it ("Sharpes Cafe") and create a community "hub" - the charity shop income raises the funds, and the local community stop by for coffee and cake, so even the most cautious of Veterans can pop in to have a quick look. Within the charity shop they also create a welfare room, and each shop has a trained welfare officer, so anyone needing help at any time can get it.
FirstLight Trust don't just sit around waiting for Vets to come to them, they proactively work with the local police forces and councils to identify any Veterans in need so they can find them and help get them back on their feet. They really are amazing!
Whilst in Service, these brave people have helped keep us safe - It is our turn to help keep them safe.
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A magic trick - turn £20 into £25! This site is great - if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 25% will be added to your sponsorship at no cost to you if you tick the option so £10 become £12.50, £20 = £25.00, £50 = ...you get the idea [By the way, the site is totally secure, and the 'magic trick' works with any amount pledged.]