About us

OUR VISION: Ensuring that ex-officers and their dependants live with dignity and independence.

OUR MISSION: To promote the welfare of those who have held a commission in HM Armed Forces and their dependants.

OUR VALUES: We strive to add value and enhance the lives of ex-officers and their dependants. We are committed to working with other service and civilian charities and agencies in order to provide an equitable and non-judgemental service to the maximum number of those eligible. We believe in being transparent in how we work, and accountable to our funders and other stakeholders. Within the charity we value our people, are committed to creating a secure and stimulating working environment, developing the potential of our staff and volunteers, and treating them in a considerate and compassionate way.

OPERATIONS: In 2010-11 our Employment consultants saw 1158 clients in formal interviews and helped them towards finding work. In addition, consultants handled around 6900 queries on employment matters (CVs, applications and job opportunities). On the Benevolence side, our staff handled around 7475 calls and supported 873 beneficiaries, with grants totalling £1.462 million. More details can be found in our Annual Report. (The 2009-10 figure was £1.391 million).

FUNDING AND STAKEHOLDERS: Committed members of COBSEO, we cooperate with and receive funding from a wide range of charities, but in particular The Royal British Legion, the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity,  ABF The Soldiers' Charity, the RAF Benevolent Fund, as well as other charities.

GOVERNANCE: Our Executive Committee consists of the senior representatives of our stakeholder charities, the chairmen of Finance, Benevolence and Employment sub-committees and functional experts. Strategic oversight is provided by the Presidents, Senior Officers representing the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force, and Vice Presidents, former Chairmen of the OA. See `The OA Team', `Governance' and `History' for more details.