SSAFA sets sight on new chairperson to lead serving community team

16 December 2021

SSAFA is recruiting a motivated and passionate Chair to lead the Salisbury Plain Serving Community Team as they offer support to the serving personnel and their families.

The charity has been providing practical, emotional, and financial support to our Forces and their families since 1885 and not just during times of conflict. Their teams of volunteers and employees help those currently serving, veterans, and their families to retain their independence and dignity.

SSAFA has long had a presence within the bases and garrisons in the UK and overseas where our teams of dedicated volunteers support members of the Armed Forces and their families, as well as plan events and fundraise. The Serving Community Team (SCT) is looking to recruit a chair who can help support the volunteers in this environment.

Salisbury Plain SCT covers the main Salisbury Plain training area, and its associated army camps, covering a large part of Wiltshire, so the ability to travel would be recommended.

The Chair will oversee and support the delivery of volunteer services and ensure that beneficiaries receive the support that they need. Whilst in post, the Chair and members of the SCT will be fully supported by SSAFA with training provided, including e-learning and regular meetings and events. The position is also a great opportunity to enhance those skills that are found in leadership roles, improving any CV.

Matt Bailey is the Chair of the SCT at RAF Cranwell, he said, “I took over as Chair for the RAF Cranwell Service Committee in 2019. At the time I knew of SSAFA but had never had any real interaction. As Chair, my role is to oversee and support the committee, ensuring we are well represented at station and community level. It quickly became apparent how crucial the support offered by SSAFA was to service personnel and families, whether it be financial, or time given by the community volunteers.”