Christmas ‘difficult’ for forces personnel

HALF OF serving and former Armed Forces personnel in Yorkshire and the Humber find Christmas a difficult time of year, research by a charity has found.

A survey revealed 43 per cent find that the season can bring suppressed emotions to the surface, while nearly half struggle with the pressure of wanting to make Christmas with loved ones ‘perfect’.

Some 40 per cent of servicemen and women, as well as veterans, worry about finances and 20 per cent feel guilty about being away from work.

The research was carried out by Armed Forces charity SSAFA (formerly the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association).

This Christmas, SSAFA asks the public to spare a moment of thought for the Armed Forces and for those who find the festive period hard to cope with.

Julie McCarthy, its director of volunteer operations, said: “Christmas is a unique time of year packed with visions of a ‘picture-perfect’ Christmas. But this can result in a great deal of pressure for families, especially those in the military.

“This year, we ask the nation to spare a thought for those that might find the season challenging. Extend some festive cheer to fellow neighbours, reconnect with old friends, or consider donating the gift of time or money to SSAFA this Christmas.

“At SSAFA, we work to ensure that those who turn to us for help get the support they need. SSAFA’s network provides lifelong practical, emotional and financial support for serving personnel, veterans and military families in their hour of need.”