Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent discussions he has had with the leadership of the Royal Air Forces Association on its charitable work.

The Royal Air Force (RAF) enjoys a long-standing and collaborative relationship with the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) recognising the critical role the organisation plays in supporting the RAF community, including Serving Personnel, veterans, and their families.

RAFA provides a wide range of welfare and community services, including mental health support, financial assistance, and social engagement opportunities. The RAF works closely with RAFA to ensure these services are accessible and effective, fostering a shared commitment to the well-being of the RAF family. The RAF actively engages with RAFA through a variety of activities and initiatives at all levels and takes advantage of every opportunity that arises to work with the charity.

Furthermore, the RAF regularly engages in formal settings with RAF charities, including RAFA, such as the biannual Deputy Chief of the Air Staff’s Charity Forum, the Charitable Stakeholders meeting, workshops, research symposiums and events. There has been a recent focus on developing a RAF Charities Charter and working closely with the RAF Families Federation, parented by RAFA, to provide a critical confidential channel for personnel and families who are committed to improving the quality of life for the RAF family, at home and overseas.

This close partnership ensures that the RAF and RAFA work in unison to address the needs of the RAF community, both past and present. The RAF remains hugely grateful for RAFA’s unwavering support and looks forward to continuing this vital collaboration in the years to come.