To stop the Royal British Legion closing the 4 Break Centres across the UK and Handy van Service.

Comments

#2602

I'm signing because these centres are a must for all veterans. I for one have stopped at Southport years ago ,when my late wife had cancer. It was fantastic for us both to stay at a beautiful centre, where you are looked after.

Gary Thomas (Burnley , 2019-11-28)

#2603

I believe these homes should be maintained for many Vets & Families who depend on having R&R in safety.

William Hay (Bangor, 2019-11-28)

#2604

I am signing this petition as a member of the RBL in NI who like numerous others has spent years collecting for the Poppy Appeal and raising money for the RBL. NI does not have the military covenant, we still live with the threat of attack because of our service and Bennett House is one place where those who need respite can go knowing they are safe and with people who understand their needs. If the RBL leadership decide to close these facilities and in particular Bennett House I for one will be considering leaving the RBL and know of dozens more who feel as I do at this disastrous course of action. Leadership please remember the Royal British Legion motto “Service, not Self” before you make a decision that will destroy this great organisation.

Denis McKee (Kilkeel , 2019-11-28)

#2609

These break centre's provide a very safe and comfortable environment for ex forces with a vast range of difficulties wlth like minded people and meet new friends also in Northern Ireland there is only one in Portrush if this was closed I personally could Not bring my family for a holiday anywhere as I am on disability benefits.

Keith Saunderson (ENNISKILLEN , 2019-11-28)

#2610

We must look after our veterans

Alun Jones (Southport, 2019-11-28)

#2614

I'm on the committee of Bennet House
And there was no consultation with the members of RBL

Vera Rodgers (Crumlin , 2019-11-28)

#2615

Only one in Northern Ireland for our veterans

Adeline Farr (Coleraine, 2019-11-28)

#2616

Being an ex 22 year Navy veteran, I want to say how discussed this news makes me feel.

Patsy-Anne Tracey (Market Harborough, 2019-11-28)

#2621

I'm signing because I have been and know how valuable it is to me so anyone else would love the experience

James Pullin (Egremont Cumbria , 2019-11-28)

#2622

I have been unable to apply for a break and have just managed to apply and now hear that they are closing the centres.

Raymond Holland (Shipley, West Yorkshire, 2019-11-28)

#2623

I am a veteran and think this is entirety out of order.

Malcolm Sheppard (Teigngrace , 2019-11-28)

#2626

I believe that the residential hotels are worth more than a few quid.
They are a safe haven for veterans, who need a understanding place to stay.

Andrew Burton-Smith (Southport , 2019-11-28)

#2633

This proposal is flawed and to the detriment of many service users. Many RBL members highly incensed by this.

Heather Humphreys (Enniskillen , 2019-11-28)

#2634

Former Service people homeless, in despair, committing suicide etc....... we need more help not less.

Ron Meaker (St Pauls Bay, 2019-11-28)

#2636

We wouldnt be here today without our war heroes and to take this facility away from them when they need it most would be an utter disgrace.

Emma Davies (Southport , 2019-11-29)

#2638

I know how essential these breaks are for the people who benefit.

Nicola Jane Willgoss (York, 2019-11-29)

#2639

A lot of my friends and family are in the Armed Forces and I know what the RBL does for veterans

Camilla Evans (London, 2019-11-29)

#2642

I'm signing because this is a much needed resource, very relevant and very well used and received. I had the privilege of spending a week at Alderson House in Bridlington, when I was in need of some much welcome respite. These places are in great demand for veterans and families of all ages and for many reasons. Make savings elsewhere, not by closing and/or reduce these facilities.

Alison Sayell (Hull, 2019-11-29)

#2646

Im signing to support the veterans and widows like myself that use the retreat Bennett House .I was there last week and all the staff are devastated. Its the only retreat we have here in NI. Its a great place and will be sadly missed .

Gwen Francis (Portadown, 2019-11-29)

#2647

Its wrong and a much needed service

Anthony Weir (Cleator, 2019-11-29)

#2648

The veterans of this country have given so much. They did it at minimal cost to the government and country. The least we can do is continue to honour them by showing love respect and dignity. That much is deserved. This is a small Token of tgat love respect and dignity.

Joel Turnbull (Belfast, 2019-11-29)

#2654

I know that Northern Ireland has no other break centre where veterans can feel secure among like minded people... too many terrorist sympathisers "working" on any "alternative "... need for Special Case exclusion from this issue

Magi Delahay (Carrickfergus , 2019-11-29)

#2658

It's a great service for our veterans.
They deserve this and more.

Andy Taylor (Durham, 2019-11-30)

#2661

I was granted a Poppy Break for me and my young daughter for a week in a caravan near Blackpool a few years ago as we had not had a holiday for many years and the joy it brought to my daughter was immeasurable we were given vouchers to spend on food for the week to enable us to further enjoy our time there and I can’t thank the RBL enough for putting joy on my daughters face at a very difficult time in our lives so please re-think about closing the break centres as the good it does is immeasurable my daughter talks about that holiday even now 10 years on and the help it gives again is immeasurable

Gail Andrews (Nottingham, 2019-11-30)

#2665

These break centres are badly needed by veterans and serving members of the armed forces.

Denise Davies (Stockport, 2019-11-30)

#2667

I fully support these Break Centres they must be kept open and available to veterans RBL member

Stan Davis (Retford, 2019-11-30)

#2668

This is something i really look forward to every 2 years.

william woods (Newtownabbey, 2019-11-30)

#2672

This facility offers veterans and their carers an opportunity to get away from the norm. Meet new people and share their experiences.

Mike Cadwallader (Southport, 2019-11-30)

#2673

It is a excellent cause.

Scott Hunter (Carlisle , 2019-11-30)

#2674

My grandparents used this facility and some people this is the only break they get and it is a vital service for those who do not have a lot and need help

ian edmonds (bridgwater, 2019-11-30)

#2675

I have enjoyed breaks at Byng house initially with my husband and now alone

Joan Willshire (Sale , 2019-11-30)

#2679

Every single avenue of help is important to our ex-service family in order to assist them in some small way and to thank them for their service. They need to know they are not alone.

Ian Mottram (Wrexham, 2019-12-01)

#2680

Closing the homes and the handy van service will affect a great number of ex service personnel. Those at the top of the RBL should think again, no wonder the legion is losing its members!

Norman Brown (Northampton, 2019-12-01)

#2682

I’m a member / SB/ V. chair. TRBLCork Branch ROI. We have members ex services from our region, have much needed respite and Rn R at these facilities. This is an important part of supporting their needs.

Joseph P O’ Doherty Saleh (Cork, 2019-12-01)

#2684

Keith Culley

Keith Culley (Chesterfield, 2019-12-01)

#2687

I believe a holiday does people the most good !

Elizabeth Donaghy (Limavady , N Ireland . , 2019-12-01)

#2692

I've worked there for over 19 years, that place means so much to all our guests and staff

Debbie Dunton (Weston super mare , 2019-12-01)

#2697

I am a veteran -was a medic in the Airforce I have also entertained the veterans at Byng House. brilliant service, very needed- it makes a difference

ANNE WYNNE-JONES (TARLETON, 2019-12-01)

#2698

I went this year with my sister in law Lynn Woodroffe to Bridlington not knowing about this wonderful place ,the staff wonderful more than 5 star service given all these year being x army wife being widow 8 years &finding it to be lost to lots of people so sad

Sheila ALLCOCK (DERBYSHIRE , 2019-12-01)

#2699

Our men and women need help, after any conflict, that you the government ask them to do, so we as a nation should never close these centres

Lesley Manison (West Midlands, 2019-12-01)

#2700

It's a disgrace!!, Veterans need this I know I am one.

Alan Stamp (Sunderland, 2019-12-01)

#2702

Because as an ex service man I don’t want these to close leading to more ex service men to suffer on the streets

Mark Parker (Peterbough , 2019-12-01)

#2703

This is so wrong.

Norman Dean (Pontycymer, 2019-12-01)

#2705

Its an absolute disgrace , so many people need this!!

Joan McCabe (Newtownards, 2019-12-01)

#2709

As a UDR widow i av had the chance 2 stay at Bennett House a few times over the past few years..
As i was widowed 28yrs ago with 4 small children ..it has only been in the later years that i av been able 2 go 2 Bennett House.. unfortately i was only able 2 go 1 week at a time as i now look after my elderly mother and couldnt get away for 2 weeks in a row..
We always left a donation as we were very grateful for the quality time we has there..
We were lucky enough 2 go as a Udr widows group so it was lovely meeting up with other widows from other areras in Northern Ireland..
We will greatly miss Bennett House as it is the only place for a lovely break were we feel secure..

Denise Blakely (Armagh, 2019-12-01)

#2712

This is a vital service

Gill Dougal (Exeter, 2019-12-01)

#2714

I am a Veteran and value such facilities

Lesley Holt (Manchester , 2019-12-01)

#2720

These break centres are needed

Liz Godwin (Stafford , 2019-12-02)

#2728

I’m signing this because I work hard for my local branch and the poppy appeal not so things like this can happen, it’s the complete opposite to what the RBL stands for.

Sarah Mcmillan (London, 2019-12-02)

#2729

We need to keep these open in Northern Ireland they are really needed

Lorene Cunningham (Belfast , 2019-12-02)

#2730

This is a much needed and valuable service

Denis Coleman (Rotherham , 2019-12-02)

#2731

After going through all the paperwork and being told that I am on the waiting list for a break I am now told that I probably won't get a break! Another let down by the RBL.

Bob Marden (Hastings, 2019-12-02)

#2732

Those currently serving and veterans need and deserve facilities such as these.

Ron Mills (Newark , 2019-12-02)

#2733

As a veteran, this type of facility is vital to those who have it as their ONLY option to have a holiday. Unfortunately abused by others, we should not allow those centres to close but to be better supported.

Tracy Brown (Otley, 2019-12-02)

#2735

I am ex Forces and I believe that there is enough money in the RBL to continue running these important venues.

Andrew Heath (Salisbury, 2019-12-02)

#2736

As a former Submariner and Veteran, I and many of my friends have visited the Break Centre in Bridlington. And seen, first hand, the great work they do. Indeed, we have donated several hundreds of pounds to the Centre. The RBL, of which, I am not a member, should reconsider this and perhaps a pay cut for your highly paid officials should be considered.

Gary Wilson (HELENSBURGH, 2019-12-02)

#2737

This is the only facility in Northern Ireland that the British Legion can offer respite. Do you expect elderly people to travel to the mainland. This is why I pay my money to Legion so others can get some help. Disgrace if it closes shame on you.

Heather Elliott (Kesh, 2019-12-02)

#2739

after the massive overhaul bennet house received it is not only stupid but a great dishonor to our veterans and serving members of the armed forces. a poppy break is the least we can offer them. if there has to be cuts start with the people that the top who are receiving large paychecks in order to supposedly keep places like this open

Audrey Foster (ballymena , 2019-12-02)

#2741

These places and services are part of the reason that the RBL exist !! They are essential !!

Geoff Clarke (Chatteris, 2019-12-02)

#2746

I'm an Army veteran AGED 73 YRS who may make use of the facility in BRIDLINGTON.

Donald McKinnon (Beverley, 2019-12-03)

#2752

Veteran

Chris Smith (Chesterfield, 2019-12-03)

#2753

As a member of the Legion I believe that smy such changes should have been consulted on bu the whole membership.

Steve Thatcher (Wellingborough, 2019-12-03)

#2755

I want to say that some of the people who use this facility do so because it's the only thing that keeps them going and they get to see some new friends and they love the old stories so please don't close this lovely home from home

David Culbertson (Coleraine, 2019-12-03)

#2756

I know people who have used this wonderful service and have benefitted greatly from it. Our ex service people deserve this and so much more. Long may it continue.

Jean Turner (Liverpool , 2019-12-03)

#2757

Another draconian decision without any consultation with members. What a dictatorial way to run a charity.
What a waste of the large donations (charity money) our Branch has made to Byng House in the past.

Richard Glenister (Windermere, 2019-12-03)

#2758

We are becoming a cash cow for the high up,s and private enterprise, we are becoming faceless, all you get now is a voice on a phone. Our opinion is no longer listened too.
Disgusted,

David Jones (Irthlingborough, 2019-12-03)

#2759

There are or should be sufficient funds to keep these homes and services open. Stop giving away funds that we give for veterans to other charities!

Mike Baxter (Warminster, 2019-12-03)

#2760

They shouldn’t be doing any closures anywhere of any thing without the permission of the members. It is our volunteers that collect the majority of the money used for all projects and we it’s not done to pay some executives fat cats wages. We the members feel strongly that these respite centres are very much needed and will be in the future . Therefore we wish these to remain and continue indefinitely.

Patrick Cutting (Wellingboroughh, 2019-12-03)

#2763

I am a pensioner and veteran and may need this service one day

Francis Howard (Plymouth , 2019-12-03)

#2764

I am signing this petition to vent my anger at the proposed closure of Bennett House. Bennett house is the only facility provided to us here in Northern Ireland for our beneficiaries, it is a first class service with first class staff. The need for this facility is unique here in Northern Ireland due to the concentration of soldiers here that are still suffering the traumas from Operation Banner. If this facility is closed our veterans will feel very let down by the RBL.
My point as the poppy appeal organiser for the last 12 years. I have spearheaded at team that has raised nearly £400,000, Bennett House has been our main focus when asked “where does this money go”. Without this facility I would have to consider my position as PAO, why would I walk the street in the cold and the rain to pay the DG’ salary.
I would ask that this proposal be reconsidered and the file placed in the pigeon hole marked “bin”.

Roberta McNally (Lurgan, 2019-12-03)

#2765

I feel strongly about this issue.

George HUGHES (BANBRIDGE, 2019-12-03)

#2772

Bennet House is the only out let that we have. don't they not want NI to have nothing only to send them our money. It looks to me they want every thing in London

James S Robinson (Newtownstewart, 2019-12-03)

#2774

Bloody disgusting, open more of them!

Kevan Longhurst (Southampton , 2019-12-04)

#2775

I joined the B.L Riders because my perents served in WW2. I't now seams more like a profit making business than supporting ex & serving armed forces personnel in need of help.

Dave Mc Donald (Liverpool, 2019-12-04)

#2776

I am concerned the decision to close the Bennet House will have a disproportionately adverse effect for our beneficiaries.

Michael Colohan (Ballycastle , 2019-12-04)

#2777

I believe it is wrong to close these places. When millions of pounds are being raised by the public. All so that the bug cats at the top can have a bigger wage. The money is raised for things like this not large wages

Sean Drewitt (Plymouth , 2019-12-04)

#2779

Having recently visited Bennet House and met the wonderful staff, and toured this fantastic facility, it beggars belief that RBL would look to close it.

Nigel Parnaby (Ballymoney, 2019-12-04)

#2780

I have friends who use this service and it is thrifty lifeline

Jackie Smith (Liverpool, 2019-12-04)

#2782

I am a wrinkly old veteran and a member of the Royal British Legion - I beg them NOT to do this,

Ann Savage-Lewis (Caerphilly, 2019-12-04)

#2785

My partner and myself r shocked by the British Legion’s actions and feel that Bennett house should remain accessible to injured service men as this is greatly needed

Melanie Crawford (Lisburn , 2019-12-04)

#2787

My uncle availed of the services of this facility some years ago and as the only on in Ireland (North or South) it is vital.

JASON CUNNINGHAM (BALLYCASTLE, 2019-12-04)

#2788

My family have had the pleasure of a poppy break when we were in dire need of help.I feel it would be a great shame that families can no longer benefit from this extremely valuable service.
To take away the poppy help as well is such a shame as the elderly,disabled and ill benefitted greatly from having thIs service when general handymen may not have been available or affordable

Michelle Godwin (Buckingham, 2019-12-04)

#2792

Dementia sufferers need all the help they can get

June Pinto (Liverpool, 2019-12-04)

#2793

So many ex servicemen and their families have really benefited from the break at Bennett House, myself included. Being in a safe space and being cared for, even for a short time made such a difference in my life.

Karen Blair (Belfast , 2019-12-04)

#2795

My wife and I were fortunate enough to attended the centre in Bridlington at a time when my life was unbearable, without this break I'm not sure I would not be here today to sign this petition, unfortunately our break was cut short as our home was burgled shortly after arriving at the centre, however our time there was amazing with the staff treating us like Royalty, this is such an amazing place. Please don't deprive others of this safe haven and much needed break in their time of need!

Bob Hodgson (Boston, 2019-12-04)

#2796

Iam ex Army

Larry Clarkr (Carrickfergus , 2019-12-04)

#2797

As a caseworker, I know of several ex-servicemen and women who have benefited from going to Somerset Legion House.
Also I have referred clients to the Handyvan before all such calls went through the call centre.

Ann Davies (Bridgend, 2019-12-04)

#2799

I have had a number of relatives in the forces and an uncle who was killed in the first world war.

Rosemarie Conn (Belfast, 2019-12-05)



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