Your chance to be a hero
SUPPORT OUR PROTECTORS
NEARLY nine out of 10 Armed Forces veterans have struggled for money after leaving, new figures reveal.
And two-thirds have had problems managing cash and debts.
Hardly surprising with an average annual post-service income of £17,000, around £6,300 lower than the UK average.
And just less than a quarter have to survive on under £7,500, say the figures from Armed Forces charity SSAFA.
These are people who have kept us safe – many risking their lives for us – and they deserve support in their time of need.
That’s why Your Money has teamed up with the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) – run by Bacs Payment Schemes – and the SSAFA to boost awareness of their plight and raise funds for essential support services.
SHOCKED
CASS, five years old this week, makes switching your current account simple, reliable and stress-free. It has pledged to match donations made by Mirror readers to SSAFA up to £25,000 to mark its birthday.
Funds raised will go towards training mentors who will provide one-to-one support for discharged veterans and their families in the transition back to life in civvy street.
Anne Pieckielon, Bacs’ director of product and strategy responsible for CASS, says: “I was shocked to learn how many veterans struggle financially on leaving the Forces.
“I believe we have a responsibility to help them, especially those who may have missed out on a basic financial education.
“We want to make a difference – that’s why we’re really proud to be working with SSAFA and the Daily Mirror on this campaign.”
SSAFA mentors aid veterans with practical and emotional support, help in making decisions about their future and offering independent
and confidential advice. This includes help to pay bills and even accessing a GP or dentist, which a new service leaver may never have had to do before.
It costs £500 to train each mentor, so the CASS donation alone would pay for up to 50 new mentors.
SSAFA fundraising director Jonathan Sandall, says: “Financial education is vital for our Armed Forces to make a successful transition back into civilian life. According to our latest research report (The Nation’s Duty), 87% of veterans supported by SSAFA have experienced financial problems, so any positive steps to help combat this are welcomed.
“We’re delighted to be working with CASS to shine a spotlight on this and continue to offer tailored support to all serving personnel, veterans and their families.”