Coningsby-based Sergeant becomes ambassador for RAF Benevolent Fund after ‘incredible’ support
A Lincolnshire sergeant has joined the RAF Benevolent Fund as one of their new ambassadors for 2025, following his personal journey of support.
This year, nine new ambassadors from across the UK join the existing programme, each bringing personal experiences of how the fund has supported them – through practical, financial, or emotional assistance.
From veterans rebuilding their lives after service, to families overcoming personal challenges, their stories highlight the life-changing impact of the fund’s work.
Rob, 42, from Boston, joined the RAF in 2007 and is currently based at RAF Coningsby.
He and his wife were supported by the Fund following the birth of their son Kody, who was diagnosed with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
When the family moved into a more appropriate property, the fund provided support to adapt the space to meet the family’s needs.
Adaptations included a full wet room, widening doors for a wheelchair, fitting an underfloor heating system to remove radiators from the walls and providing a safe pathway with a soft floor built all around the outside permitter of the property.
The fund also provided a specialist changing bed, a specialist sleeping system, an all-terrain buggy for Kody to move around and an array of sensory equipment.
Rob will represent the fund in his new ambassador role at community events, engaging with the public and stakeholders, and sharing his lived experience to raise awareness of the fund’s mission, to ensure that no member of the RAF Family faces adversity alone.
Rob said: “I am thrilled to join the RAF Benevolent Fund’s ambassador programme.
“The fund’s support has been incredible in supporting Kody and our family, giving him the independence he needed.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to give back through this programme, helping to raise awareness of the vital work of the Fund, and encourage those who may be in need to seek support.”
Air Vice-Marshal Chris Elliot, CEO of the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “We are proud to welcome our new cohort of ambassadors, who each bring a powerful combination of lived experience and deep understanding of the RAF Family.
“Having served themselves and benefitted from our support, they offer an authentic voice and a unique perspective.
“Their stories inspire connection, raise awareness, and remind us of the enduring strength and resilience within our community. We are honoured to have them as part of our amazing fund team.”
The RAF Benevolent Fund provides financial, emotional, and practical assistance to serving and retired RAF personnel and their families. This includes grants to help with financial difficulty, mental health support, Airplay youth clubs, and more.
