Recently bereaved?

Our volunteer Visitors are available to provide companionship to beneficiaries who are vulnerable, unwell or isolated. If you've suffered a bereavement our volunteer caseworkers or visitors can also provide some basic information on bereavement services that might be available to you in your area. The NHS can also provide limited counselling support, so you should speak to your GP. 

The following organisations might be able to help you further: 

• Big White Wall (look for the Home Front link on the homepage) 
• Cruse Bereavement Care
• Winston's Wish
• Child Bereavement Charity

Hester Wright

Hester Wright, 22, lost her husband, Drummer Damian Wright in an improvised explosion in Afghanistan in 2007, and has been assisted financially by the Legion.

Hester was one of the first to receive the Elizabeth Cross, which honours relatives of those who have been killed on active service, and she helped launch the Legion's Poppy Appeal in 2009.

"Nothing can replace Damian, but knowing the Legion is there to offer comfort and support has been a great help. I don't know what I would have done without their assistance. You don't expect to lose your husband at 20 and be left as a single mum. The Legion has helped me to come to terms with Damian's death."

Struggling to pay for a funeral?

If you need help to meet an unexpected expense like the cost of a funeral, the Legion can be there for you. Each year we help thousands of people through immediate crises by providing small hardship grants.

About to go through a Service inquest?

If you've been bereaved as a result of Service and are facing an inquiry and inquest (fatal accident inquiry in Scotland), we can help you through the process. We have specialist legal advisers to provide help, guidance and support through the investigation of a death in Service.

Need to get away?

The Legion offers all beneficiaries and their carers four different kinds of break - completely free to those who meet each scheme's welfare and financial needs criteria. If you need a break due to a life-changing event or severe disability, or you simply haven't been able to afford one for several years, we are likely to have a break for you.

Need help claiming compensation?

If you want to claim compensation from the Ministry of Defence, the Legion can help you through the process. We can help you claim an Armed Forces Compensation Scheme payment or refer you to a panel of specialist solicitors if you believe you have a personal injury claim.

Need help claiming a War Pension?

We can help you claim a War Pension or War Widow's/Widower's Pension if you have been injured in Service or are the widow, widower, partner or dependant of someone who died as a result of Service in the Armed Forces.

Struggling to make ends meet?

If you're worried about managing your money or dealing with debts, the Legion's Benefits and Money Advice service can help. Our advisers offer free, impartial and confidential advice to help you manage your money and make sure you're getting all the benefits you are entitled to.