Page 70 - Bugle Spring 2024

AARP
VOLUNTEERING FOR AARP
It was October 2021, and whilst scrolling through Facebook I saw that Baz Melia had put the call out for the birthing of Always a Rifleman Programme (AARP). At that moment I knew I had to get involved somehow. As a wife to a fellow Rifleman who has struggled and a mother to a son who is in 1 RIFLES.
I have walked through the darkest days with my husband Stuart before the AARP programme existed. I have a love for the Regiment, and seeing what the AARP’s mission was I realised many others wouldn’t have to go through what we did alone.
In January 2022 I attended the first 2-day AARP mental health first aid course in Liverpool. It was delivered by fellow Rifleman, John Barry and blew me away. All volunteers willing to help will take part in this course, as it gives huge insight into how mental health affects individuals. As a trained counsellor
I had understood some aspects of mental health support, but doing this course showed we can always learn. All training is crucial when involved within the AARP, the key skills that are obtained are ones that can help individuals in crisis, and at times we use those skills to prevent those taking their life.
After completing the course, I was then given my first task to send a fellow Rifleman to Egypt on a diving therapy course. The diving course entailed making sure the individual
had up-to-date travel documents, arranging medicals, and liaising with the team who oversee the dive expedition. Sounds easy.
Well not always, as some people haven’t travelled since leaving the army, so getting documentation and navigating medicals can be very intimidating for some to deal with. The trip was a success, and it helped the individual deal with their mental health giving them confidence in their abilities, and the satisfaction of knowing they can do more than they realise.
In July 2023 I had the privilege of sending Rifleman Leigh Spence out to Portugal on another task for AARP. From start to finish I had a window of two weeks to plan and sort this trip which involved finding flights, and making sure all documentation was sorted, and helping Leigh feel well supported throughout the journey to Portugal and back to the UK. As a programme we are really fortunate to have been given the opportunity of sending those struggling in some way or indeed their grief to Mike and Kim Shaw’s beautiful home in sunny Portugal for some respite care. The Shaw’s son James, served in 4 RIFLES and are very much part of the wider family.
In May 2023 the ‘Always A Rifleman’ held the first Gala event in Silverstone at the famous racetrack. The evening was geared to create an environment in which Riflemen, new and old, got together, and it had a close family feel which was brilliant. Also, the night included
handing out awards which were given to those who helped support the programme.
On May 11th year we will have the second gala event at Silverstone, which I’m sure will be just as good. Supporting events such as this is one to be proud of, as I saw what the Programme has achieved so far. The Rifles family to me is an extension of my own family, as everyone sticks together and seeks out those who may be struggling, and shows them magnificent support; which is second to none.
For anyone looking to help and support the Always a Rifleman Programme, I would say
do it. We can’t do it alone and need your help and support. Being involved in this unique programme has been an absolute honour, and getting to be involved in different tasks has been incredible.
Swift and Bold!
Sarah Anderson
AARP and Care 4 Casualties Walk
During September over 80 veterans from three of our antecedent regiments took part in a three day walk over the hills of Shropshire, all in aid of Care for Casualties and support to the AARP. The weather held, and everyone had a great time reminiscing and looking after blisters.
A very special mention should go to
Elly and Decca Winter for their drive and dedication ensuring the administration and detailed route recce was finalised the day before in the pouring rain. Well done to everyone who got involved!
70 RIFLES The Bugle