'Help for Heroes', Kim Wardner

We had an excellent presentation by Kim Wardner on the great work done by the charity 'Help for Heroes' in providing practical and direct support for our wounded and their families.

Kim is a retired Army Major, having served in Northern Ireland, Cyprus, Belize and the Falkland Islands as well as appointments as Platoon Commander at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and as Company Commander with the 8th Battalion, Royal Irish Regiment in Armagh. Kim was the 'Help for Heroes' first volunteer in Scotland in 2007 and, since 2012, she has ably fulfilled the role of Regional Manager for Scotland. 

During her emotive and interesting talk Kim informed of the Charity's mission to deliver an enduring national network of holistic and person-centred support for wounded soldiers at their four Recovery Centres at Plymouth, Tidwork, Colchester and Catterick.

The war in Afghanistan may have stopped, but for those who suffered catastrophic and life-changing injuries, including those who have more complex needs due to 'hidden' consequences, their battles are just beginning. The world class support available covers medical, mind, body, spirit and family needs and includes many activities, including cooking, art and gardening, and grants amounting to some £4.17 million were allocated last year.

Kim explained that the important message is 'It's about doing your bit!' which includes giving now or later, supporting through fundraising or volunteering or simply talking about 'Help for Heroes'.

In giving Kim a warm vote of thanks for her presentation, Andy Howard expressed a hope that our Club would do our bit and consider further support to the 'Help for Heroes' Charity.

Report by Graham Low