Blesma are thrilled to announce that we are taking part in The Big Give’s Christmas challenge!

For seven days in December (01 – 08), the Big Give offers Blesma supporters the opportunity to have their online donation doubled, meaning every pound gifted will be matched. This year, the challenge will be raising funds for activities for the Blesma Membership.

The generous support received from the Christmas challenge will help provide face to face and virtual activities to enable Blesma Members and their families, both young and old, to come together, have fun and build important friendships to gain mutual support.

These activities also help improve well-being and tackle loneliness so many face, particularly during Covid-19 living restrictions.

For many members of the Blesma community, such activities have been life changing. They connect like-minded people - aiding the recovery journeys of our Members whether they are ex service personnel or a Blesma Widow, help them find new hobbies, and interests or skills and even form new friendships, some of which have proved a real lifeline this year.

“Blesma have been a real saviour for me during lockdown. I was really impressed by how quickly they jumped in and arranged online groups and activities. Through Blesma online I’ve got to know other veterans and I’ve even met up with one to cycle the Edinburgh / Glasgow canal route during lockdown. Already you are meeting people online that you are prepared to meet in person, which is brilliant. Blesma have pulled it out the bag for us really.”

RAF Veteran Ken De Soyza - Blesma Member since 2019

For some, like Paralympians Owen Pick and Nick Beighton, the events have even led to a sporting career.

Nick, who is now a British paracanoeist, said: “Only six months after injury I was rafting in Colorado with Blesma. It gave me an idea of what might be possible if I didn’t dwell on the dark side of things. It opened my mind. I went sailing and learned to mono-ski. The Blesma attitude really helped me, and I realised that sport could give me a goal.”

The Christmas Challenge will take place from 12pm 1st December – 12pm 8th December when donations to Blesma and participating charities are doubled.

Click here to double your gift