The Poppy Appeal
The Poppy Appeal is the Royal British Legion’s main fundraising campaign. The Legion supports people of all ages, providing financial, social and emotional support to all those affected by conflict. Our beneficiaries range from children to widows, single mothers, pensioners and ANYONE who finds themselves in need of support.
The Poppy Appeal is a 365 day campaign, although for a two week period running up to Armistice Day on 11th November, when we all fall silent for two minutes to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country, our campaign shines in our town centres, shops and supermarkets.
Where the money goes:
The Legion has committed £50 million over ten years to pay for the creation and operation of The Royal British Legion Battle Back Centre and to fund the operating costs of Personal Recovery Centres.
Providing practical care, advice and support to serving and ex-Service people, young and old.
The Legion has supported 80 bereaved Armed Forces families through inquest with free, independent expert legal advice.
The Legion has helped write off £18.3 million of debt and helped claim £9.1 million through its Benefits and Money Advice Service
Over 11,000 Legion beneficiaries in temporary crisis received £6.1 million-worth of groceries, clothing, furniture and property repairs.
Interesting Facts:
- More than 16,000 of those who have served in Afghanistan and Iraq have received direct financial assistance from the Legion
- Half of the people helped by the Legion are below retirement age
- The Legion spends £1.4 million a week
- Up to 800 injured personnel will be helped each year through the The Royal British Legion Battle Back Centre and Personnel Recovery Centres
- The £50 million commitment is the biggest single funding commitment the Legion has made in its 90 years
- Some 350,000 volunteers help to organise and collect for the Poppy Appeal each year
- The Poppy Appeal distributes around 45 million poppies each year, all made at the Poppy Factory in Richmond, Surrey.
- A poppy can be worn at any time, but they are usually available two weeks before Remembrance Sunday.
