On Monday 3rd March, I will be joining a small group of individuals to brave the cold and sleep out on the deck of a World War Two destroyer HMS Cavalier, as part of The Great Tommy Sleep Out.

HMS Cavalier celebrated her 80th anniversary last year. 143 ships of this type were lost during WW2, but she far exceeded the usual life span of a destroyer, surviving the war and almost 30 more years of service. She now lies in the same dry dock at the Historic Dockyard in Chatham.

Too many veterans face hardship when transitioning to civilian life, finding themselves without access to the support they need which can result in homelessness. FirstPort were Founding Patrons of The Tommy Club which has now grown to an internationally renowned charity – we should all be very proud of our continued support having raised £20,000 in 2024.

Every penny raised by the Great Tommy Sleep Out will mean Royal British Legion Industries can provide safe, warm housing and ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to gain employment, regardless of health conditions or disability.

Please help us to raise much-needed funds for this incredible cause!