In last week's Rethink Remembrance’ Podium article it is mentions that last year The Royal British Legion (TRBL) has been able to answer more than 1,077,019 requests for help from the Armed Forces community.

But there will be many other veterans, or their dependants, who need help or are too proud to ask.

I urge those individuals to contact the new Veteran’s Gateway (launched on June 20, 2017) by calling 0808 802 1212 (free), texting 81212 or visit https://www.veteransgateway.org.uk/ for further information or self-help.

The Veteran’s Gateway service is the first point of contact for veterans and their families to access information, advice and support on a range of issues, including healthcare, housing, and employment.

Among the several partner charities (TRBL is the lead charity) it allows information and services from partners to be accessed from one place and all inquiries will be followed up to ensure that veterans receive the right support.

The Ministry of Defence applied £2 million funding from the Military Covenant Fund for this one-stop service to better support British Armed Forces veterans in need. This was in response to calls from veterans’ charities and groups to help in navigating the wide range of services and organisations set up to support those who have served in the Forces.

An appeal for help is sought by TRBL Cumberland and Westmorland County to sustain its existence. Sadly, through ill health and on doctor’s orders, the County Treasurer has reluctantly resigned and if a replacement cannot be found the County Committee, under the strict conditions of their Royal Charter, cannot be sustained and would be subsumed into Lancashire County (or the North East).

Thus a replacement County Treasurer is urgently needed for the County Committee to continue to exist and maintain its identity and heritage.

If you are prepared to undertake this valuable voluntary post, or know anyone suitable, please contact the County Membership Support Officer (MSO), Clive Sumpter, on 0333 022 4207 (in Penrith Office on Mondays and Thursdays) or email csumpter@britishlegion.org.uk.

Richard V. Glenister

Lieutenant Commander (WESM), Royal Navy

Treasurer, Windermere Branch RBL