The Royal Air Forces Association - Eastbourne & Hailsham Branch

Overview

The Royal Air Forces Association - Eastbourne & Hailsham Branch, registered under charity number 231523, is a local branch of the larger Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA). The RAFA is a prominent British charity founded in 1943, with the primary goal of supporting serving and retired members of the Air Forces of the British Commonwealth, along with their dependents.

History

The Eastbourne & Hailsham Branch was registered on December 4, 1963. In recent years, the branch has received financial support from other RAFA branches, including funds from the Seahaven Branch in 2021[1][2].

Activities

The branch operates in line with the broader objectives of the RAFA, which include promoting the welfare of those who have served or are currently serving in the Air Forces, as well as their families. This includes supporting individuals in need and providing various charitable activities to enhance the lives of Air Force veterans and dependents.

Geographical Scope

The branch serves the communities in East Sussex, but may also extend support to surrounding areas such as Kent and Surrey, reflecting the broader reach of the RAFA's charitable activities[1].

Recent Developments

In addition to its ongoing charitable work, a significant project in the Eastbourne area involves converting a former clubhouse into retirement accommodation for RAF veterans. This initiative underscores the RAFA's commitment to providing dedicated support for retired Air Force personnel[4].

Governance and Operations

Like other RAFA branches, the Eastbourne & Hailsham Branch relies on volunteer efforts and is governed by a board of trustees who oversee its financial management, fundraising efforts, and the distribution of grants to individuals and organizations in need[1]. The branch does not receive government funding and relies solely on donations and subscriptions to carry out its charitable activities.

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/231523/full-print [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/231523/full-print [3] https://branch.rafa.org.uk/bristol/who-we-are/branch-history [4] https://www.cobseo.org.uk/raf-association-to-turn-former-clubhouse-into-retirement-home-for-raf-veterans/ [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Air_Forces_Association