The Soldiers’ Charity - Andy Reid

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is the national charity of the British Army, providing a lifetime of support to soldiers, veterans and their immediate families when they are in need. Founded in 1944 they ensured that soldiers returning from World War Two were well cared for. Since then, the welfare of soldiers, past and present, and their families has been at the heart of everything they do.

In 2009, while on patrol with 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment in Afghanistan, Corporal Andy Reid stood on a pressure plate Improvised Explosive Device (IED). As a result of the explosion, he lost his right leg below the knee, left leg above the knee, and right arm.

The Soldiers’ Charity made an immediate grant to pay for a wheelchair ramp, alterations to the front entrance of his home and a bed on the first floor. Since then The Soldiers’ Charity’s relationship with Andy has continued to develop; when he moved into a new home, it funded the cost for a floor lift so he could gain access around the entire house, and a wet room for the bathroom just to make life that little bit easier in coping with his injuries. In turn, Andy has become a passionate Ambassador for The Soldiers’ Charity, helping to raise funds and awareness.