BFBS is proud to announce the launch of the 2024 grant application process for the Big Salute. The annual initiative provides vital project-based funding to charities supporting forces related initiatives, empowering them to make a difference in the lives of those within the military community.
Through the Big Salute, charities can apply for grants of up to £10,000, for impactful projects that address the diverse needs of service personnel, veterans, and their families.
Most recently, the Big Salute allocated more than £28,000 to six deserving charities, helping initiatives such as FAB Families Activity Breaks, which was awarded £10,000 to help provide FAB camps for bereaved military families, Forces Children Scotland, which was granted £2,000 to go towards interactive school welcome packs, and Fares4Free’s £4,000 fuel expense support for volunteer drivers.
In previous years, the grants from the Big Salute have made a lasting impact. For example, in 2023 Hounds for Heroes, dedicated to providing specially trained assistance dogs to injured UK Armed Forces members, received £10,000 from the Big Salute.
This money significantly bolstered their Aftercare program and supported partnerships between three dogs and beneficiaries for up to a year. Updates show that one of the dogs, Copper, is excelling in her role, while another Phoebe now operates as a full partner, offering crucial support to her handler.
Additionally, in 2023 the Big Salute granted £5,000 to Felix Fund for their Dashboard Course weekend for the spouses or partners of serving personnel who conduct or assist with bomb disposal or search duties. The Dashboard program is a weeklong experience which deals with preventative stress training based on mindfulness.
Melanie Moughton, Chief Executive, Felix Fund – the bomb disposal charity, said “Felix Fund would like to thank the Big Salute for their support of our mindfulness training program tailored for the spouses or partners of EOD & Search personnel. These courses have proved vital in helping with the wellbeing of family members. The funds given made it possible for more individuals to benefit.”
Nicky Ness, Director of Broadcasting and Entertainment, BFBS, said: “We are honoured to continue championing these remarkable organisations and their impactful projects. As we open applications for the 2024 grants, we eagerly anticipate receiving proposals that demonstrate innovative approaches to supporting our military community. I’m extremely grateful to the BFBS audiences and staff who work tirelessly to raise this money, every penny of which goes to the beneficiary projects.”
Charities interested in applying for funding can visit www.bigsalute.com for more information. The deadline for submissions is 30th September 2024.