PM assertion on the launch of the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal

Every poppy worn throughout our nation honours the braveness and sacrifice of our Armed Forces group, each previous and current.

The Poppy Appeal reminds us of the values we cherish as a nation, and it’s a likelihood to honour these whose on a regular basis actions embody these ideas.

I’m proud to help the Royal British Legion’s very important work in rebuilding lives and guaranteeing that no veteran faces hardship alone. During this era of Remembrance, the nation comes collectively to mirror and bear in mind those that have served us.

Additional data:

Prime Minister Keir Stamer donates to Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal

Following the launch of the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal yesterday, Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed collectors and veterans to Downing Street and made his donation in help of the Armed Forces group, persevering with a practice relationship again to 1921.

The Prime Minister obtained his poppy on the steps of Number 10 and met collectors fundraising of their native communities, in addition to veterans who’ve obtained help from the Appeal, which this 12 months highlights how the RBL helps to rebuild lives.

Gemma Barnes, 41, Oxford

Gemma served as a Physiotherapy Officer within the Army Reserve and the Royal Air Force, overseeing the rehabilitation of injured navy personnel. She liked her job however two severe leg accidents within the house of 18 months introduced a untimely finish to her navy profession. Gemma was chosen by the Royal British Legion to symbolize Team UK as a Vice Captain within the 2025 Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler, the place she competed in adaptive occasions similar to Skeleton, Wheelchair Basketball and Snowboarding.

Rudi Champagnie, 69, London

Rudi served with the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers for 8 years, finishing postings in Germany, Canada and 6 excursions of Northern Ireland through the Troubles, which took a toll on his psychological well being. After being referred to the Royal British Legion for monetary help, the charity additionally helped him get a PTSD analysis and remedy. Grateful for the assistance he obtained, Rudi has spent the previous 23 years volunteering as a Poppy Appeal collector. He stated, “if the angel at the RBL hadn’t come to see me, I don’t think I would be here today. I don’t have money to give, but I have time.”

Rudi has raised over £750,000 for the Royal British Legion.

Grant Scott, 51, London

Grant Scott served for five years within the Army the place he served in Cyprus and Afghanistan. While serving he suffered an harm unloading missiles from a helicopter, leading to him struggling with osteo-arthritis and utilizing a wheelchair. RBL supported Grant’s compensation declare after leaving the Army, and with becoming carpets and white items, a Poppy Break, refurbishing his moist room, and help with a specialist wheelchair bike. Grant has been the Poppy Appeal Organiser for Penge for 2 years and commonly takes half in fundraising challenges such because the Poppy Ride together with his bicycle tailored for him by the RBL.

Jill Merrett, 54, London

Jill is the Poppy Appeal organiser for Rotherhithe and Bermondsey. Her father served within the Royal Signals and her great-grandfather sadly died from accidents sustained within the Battle of the Somme. For Jill, being a part of the Poppy Appeal provides a option to say thanks to our Armed Forces. She provides, “being a collector opens so many possibilities, you get to connect with so many people and the stories you hear from veterans are so interesting. The Poppy means a great deal to me; it reminds me what our Armed Forces do for us on a daily basis, and I know that in turn the Royal British legion is always here for them and their families.”

The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal

The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal takes place from Thursday 23 October till Armistice Day on Tuesday 11 November. Founded in 1921, the Appeal – which final 12 months raised £51.4 million – goals to lift very important funds so RBL can proceed its work supporting serving personnel, veterans and their households all through their lives with no matter they want, at any time when it’s wanted.