It’s a sad fact that for many people, at some point in their life, things will take an unexpected turn…. Our Veterans are not immune from this. Taught to be strong, independent and to simply ‘get on with things’, it takes an almighty amount of courage to realise that sometimes, we need a bit more help. It can be difficult to recognise there is a problem, to seek and accept support, and it’s even braver to open up about it. Wanting to raise awareness in the hope that no one else will suffer; This is Richards story….
Having served as a Radio Operator in the Royal Corps of Signals, 53-year-old veteran Richard found himself in an unexpected situation. Prior to covid, he was self-employed and made a living by dealing in antiques. Unfortunately, when covid hit, his current business model became obsolete and financial pressures increased. Richard applied through the job centre and was able to secure a duty manager position at a local retailer in order to help ease the burden. In addition to this financial strain, Richard found himself in a toxic relationship that was seriously damaging his mental health. Despite trying, it was clear that the relationship was not going to recover, in fact, it was getting worse, he needed to leave the situation and urgently.
As a result, Richard found himself homeless and living in his car. He describes this period of his life “As being in a boat in the ocean, no oars, no compass, just floating, no sense of direction. I was lost.” With no family around, apart from a son who at the time was away embarking on the start of his own military career; he was at his lowest point. He was lonely. He couldn’t see a way out, and the thoughts filling his head were the kind that you hope no one ever has to experience.
What came next was a bit of a blur. Richard was found by the local homeless team. Realising he needed help before it was too late, the wheels were set in motion. OP Courage, and SSAFA Case workers became involved. They were able to get Richard off the streets and into the Macari Centre. Whilst everyone at the Macari Centre was a great support (particularly Ex Signaller Martin Palmer), and the environment was a pleasant change from his car, Richard was not in the same situation as the other residents and a new home needed to be sought for his welfare and his mental wellbeing.
This is when the Royal Signals Charity was approached by the SSAFA Caseworker and stepped in to assist. The support form the Royal Signals Charity meant that Richard could get his own home, to regain his independence. A deposit was paid and white goods purchased. After such a long and difficult period, Richard finally had a place to call his own. He had a safe space.
“To be honest, I didn’t know that the Royal Signals Charity was there. I didn’t know they could help. I am so grateful to them and everyone who has supported me along the way. I get very emotional thinking about it.” He continued “How can I every truly thank them?”
Whilst Richard is now in a safe place, his journey is not yet over. Every day is a challenge, but he is getting there. Since being supported through OP Courage, Richard has been diagnosed with Active Suicidal Ideation. This is something that he lives with every day. As difficult as it is, he finds talking helps, and regularly attends what he refers to as his therapy sessions at a local tri-service centre where he participates in Models for Heroes. His particular interest is Star Wars models. Richard says that being in an environment with ex Servicemen and women, being able to talk, to be in the presence of others who understand, it all makes a huge difference. He has even managed to meet up with old colleagues and no longer feels as lonely, although he still has down days.
Determined to continue with his progress, Richard is now in the process of studying to gain qualifications so that he can repay the support he has received. With knowledge and first-hand experience, he is keen to make a positive difference in the world. Every day, is one step closer to recovery for Richard, and we couldn’t be prouder of him.
If you need any help or support, please reach out to our grants co-ordinator on rscgrants@royalsignals.org.
