The Ministry of Defence has announced a significant funding package of up to £500,000 to support Armed Forces Day celebrations across the United Kingdom this summer. This initiative aims to bolster community events that honour the service and sacrifice of military personnel, reservists, veterans, cadets, and their families.
Grant Opportunities for Community Organisers
Organisations are invited to apply for grants of up to £10,000, which will be matched with their own funding, to help finance Armed Forces Day events in their local areas. This matched funding scheme is designed to empower communities to create meaningful celebrations that reflect their appreciation for the Armed Forces.
Wales' Strong Defence Connections
The announcement highlights Wales' deep ties to the UK Armed Forces, with nearly 2,000 service members based in the region. The defence sector is a crucial economic driver in Wales, directly supporting almost 4,000 jobs. In the 2024-25 financial year, the Ministry of Defence invested £1.1 billion in British businesses and industries within Wales, underscoring the sector's vital role in the local economy.
Llandudno previously hosted the national Armed Forces Day event in 2018, attracting an estimated 100,000 visitors. The occasion featured a parade by 1,000 Armed Forces members, attended by HRH The Princess Royal and the Prime Minister, showcasing the nation's collective support.
A Whole-of-Society Approach to Defence
This funding is a key component of supporting hundreds of events nationwide as the country unites to celebrate Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 27. The events align with the Strategic Defence Review's call for a whole-of-society approach to defence, strengthening bonds between society and the Armed Forces. By involving industry, businesses, employers, and communities, these celebrations contribute to shared security and prosperity.
Statements from Government Officials
Defence Secretary John Healey MP emphasised the importance of community support, stating: "Our Armed Forces make extraordinary sacrifices to keep us safe, but they can't do what they do without the support of their families, friends and communities across the country. In June, we look forward to coming together as a proud nation to celebrate Armed Forces Day, and I want this funding to help make this year the best yet."
He added: "If you back our Forces and want to thank them with a celebration in your local area, do apply for a grant and register your event with us so we can help you spread the word."
Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, commented: "Armed Forces Day is a chance for people across Wales to come together to show their support for the service men and women who we all rely on to keep us safe. These grants mean that communities can put on special events to celebrate the contribution of our Armed Forces and their families and thank them for their sacrifice."
Event Details and Application Process
Armed Forces Day events are typically hosted by local authorities, veterans' organisations, schools, places of worship, charities, and community groups. Annually, the Ministry of Defence allocates £50,000 to the hosts of the national event and up to £450,000 in grants to community organisers across the country.
This year, the national event will be hosted by Rushmoor Borough Council in Aldershot and Farnborough, an area with historic connections to the Armed Forces community. The government relaunched the national event last year, reaffirming its commitment to these celebrations.
Event organisers are encouraged to register their events with the Ministry of Defence to be advertised on the Armed Forces Day website, where visitors can search for local events, dates, times, and details. All events must be free for members of the Armed Forces community to attend.
Eligibility and Deadlines
To be considered for a grant, events must meet the wider aims of Armed Forces Day, with funding matched against other sources. Full eligibility requirements are available online, and grant applications must be submitted by March 31.
The government views community events like Armed Forces Day as integral to British life, helping to foster pride in communities and support vibrant high streets. Additionally, increased defence spending aims to bolster local jobs and enhance family safety in an uncertain global landscape.
This year's celebrations are hoped to reconnect society with the Armed Forces, demonstrating how everyone plays a part in national security through a collaborative, whole-of-society approach.
