Combat Stress is the UK’s leading charity for veterans’ mental health and for over a century it has provided life-changing treatment to former military personnel with issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression.
Every day, our employees work on important programmes which support and protect our armed forces, and our drive to deliver for those currently serving is matched by the enthusiasm with which teams in every part of our business fundraise for veterans.
Much of this is led by VetNet, our employee support group for veterans, reservists and their supporters, and members were present at Combat Stress’ annual awards ceremony to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.
For the first time ever, we have recognised one of our closest supporters with a Lifetime Achievement Award after surpassing two amazing milestones of 20 years of support and £1m in donations. Their support has been truly nationwide with almost every office and sector of their business contributing. Their fantastic colleagues have run the runway in Warton, cycled from Guildford to Gloucester, got cold, wet and muddy for the ‘GRIM Challenge’ and even their senior leadership team took up the 22 push-up challenge. BAE Systems has funded numerous projects over the years, including the establishment of our patient administration system, our online self-help resources and helped fund our clinical teams. They’ve supported us in many ways, even volunteering at our Tyrwhitt House hub, helping transform our grounds and gardens for the veterans that we support to enjoy. We’re grateful for the support of organisations like BAE Systems that enable us to continue to do vital work for our veteran community.Giles Peel, Chairman, Combat Stress
During my time in the armed forces, I saw first-hand the difference that organisations like Combat Stress can make. The mental health challenges that veterans face are unique and complex and it is vital that they can seek specialist help and support. The enthusiasm with which colleagues across BAE Systems have volunteered and fundraised for Combat Stress over the past 20 years reflects the importance of the charity and its work to our employees. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with Combat Stress and supporting the great work they do for many years to come.Sir Phil Jones, senior military advisor and Royal Navy veteran
Supporting our armed forces and veterans