I am fundraising for Supporting Wounded Veterans (SWV). SWV has helped hundreds of medically discharged British veterans regain some independence and restore their self-confidence through the challenge and camaraderie of a ski week in the Alps. This programme regularly sees over 90% of veterans maintain their, or find new, employment or occupation.

In March 2024, 25 veterans will take to the slopes of Klosters, Switzerland for the SWV Ski rehabilitation week. I'm honoured to have been selected as a ski-buddy for this week. My role will be to support my veteran-buddy in all aspects of their week on and off the slopes, day and night, with friendship and empathy. I have no doubt this will be challenging but I'm committed to making it a fun and rewarding week for my veteran, whatever we face together.

On their return home, veterans are supported by a mentor and the SWV employment, training and occupation team to consider and plan their professional and personal goals outside of military life.

Why SWV is needed

Last year, 1,322 UK regular armed forces personnel were medically discharged, representing approximately four per day. For Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force personnel one of the most common causes of medical discharge was mental illness, which has increased since 2015.

For some veterans, the path to independence and employment can be a struggle which can be greatly improved by managing and developing their physical and mental health.

SWV offers veterans with physical or mental injuries or illnesses initial support through two programmes - Sports Habilitation (ski and sailing) and (innovative) Pain Management. More on these programmes can be found via the SWV website: https://www.supportingwoundedveterans.com/our-programmes.

The ask

Please consider donating to this wonderful charity. I will match all donations received on this page. None of your donation will fund the cost of sending me on this ski-week. I am paying my own way and accommodation is being offered by generous host families in Klosters. All donations will go to the charity in aid of their brilliant programs that support wounded veterans.

My inspiration

I am attending the SWV 2024 ski week in honour of a wounded war veteran close to my heart, my grandfather, Lieutenant-Commander Hall FW Tingley (Royal Canadian Navy) who was blown off his ship when it was sunk by torpedoes off Algeria during Operation Torch (Feb 1943) and yet managed, despite two broken legs, to save the cook (who couldn't swim) and find some flotsam, before being rescued. Thanks for your bravery. Rest in peace, Gramps.