A Sandbach mother and councillor is backing a campaign to reduce stress levels and loneliness for veterans and families this Christmas.

Nicola Cook, the Royal British Legion's director of specialist services, appeared on national TV yesterday (Thursday) to launch the RBL's 'Together This Christmas' campaign.  

Nicola appeared on SKY News to raise awareness of the campaign and to give pointers for help of anyone in need.  

She said: "Christmas can be a time of heightened stress for some members of the Armed Forces community, especially this year when many people are worrying about the increased cost of living and keeping their homes warm.

"We want everyone to know that there is extra support available and the RBL is here for them.

Nicola Cook and her family during a Poppy Appeal

"Bringing people together, combating loneliness and supporting individuals is an important part of our work all year round, not just at Christmas.

"Our network of members and supporters means we can reach people of all generations within the Armed Forces community, wherever they live, to offer companionship, support and a friendly ear."

Nicola, a Sandbach town councillor for the Elworth ward, appeared on Sky News yesterday (Thursday) to launch the campaign.

Royal British Legion Brings Armed Forces Community Together This Christmas focuses on several events including:

· Community events are taking place in RBL care homes and branches across the country

· Wounded, injured and sick serving and ex-service personnel also celebrated the festive season at last weekend's Team UK, Invictus Games pre-selection camp

Now entering its fourth year, The Royal British Legion's 'Together at Christmas' campaign launched today to raise awareness of the support available for the Armed Forces community during the Festive period.

A spokesperson said: "Christmas can be a time when people's troubles and worries are exacerbated, either by financial pressures or feelings of loneliness and isolation, and the RBL is reminding its community there are many ways it can support them, and to reach out if they are struggling."

In addition to the support the RBL can provide help with financial worries and feelings of loneliness, the charity has been holding get togethers around the country to bring members of the Armed Forces community together in person.

Participants at the Team UK, Invictus Games pre-selection training camp at Loughborough University this past weekend also entered into the spirit of the season, enjoying mince pies and hot chocolate with new friends between the adaptive sports on offer as part of the RBL's recovery programme.

As well as regular events which bring the Armed Forces community together, the RBL operates a friendship service through its membership, supporting those that are less able to get out into the community.

Through the scheme over 7,100 people received telephone buddy phone calls and almost 2000 people received visits at their home, or in hospital during the first 9 months of 2022, helping to combat feelings of loneliness and social isolation.

The 'Together at Christmas' initiative was launched in 2019 by four generations of The Royal Family, Her late Majesty the Queen, His Majesty King Charles III, and Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and Prince George.

Support is available over the Festive period through the Royal British Legion's helpline, open 8am-8pm, 7 days a week – 0808 802 8080.