Hosting SSAFA at our 2025 veterans’ event
Jim Evans from the Lincolnshire branch of SSAFA joined us to talk about the work the Armed Forces charity does for veterans and their families across our county.
In November 2025, Reform UK Sleaford & North Hykeham was proud to host Jim Evans from the Lincolnshire branch of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, at our 2025 veterans’ day event.
Veterans, members and their families came together as the nation marked Remembrance. Jim spoke about the role SSAFA plays in our communities: helping veterans and their families with practical and emotional support, often when they need it most and don’t know where else to turn.
Help on our doorstep
SSAFA has supported serving personnel, veterans and their families since 1885, and much of that work is done by local volunteers like Jim. Lincolnshire has deep military roots, and there are veterans in every town and village across North Kesteven. Hearing first-hand how that help reaches them was a reminder of how much good is done quietly in our county.
It was also a chance to talk about the challenges many veterans still face, from housing to finding the right support after leaving the forces, and what more local councils can do to help.
A team that has served
Supporting veterans matters to our branch because so many of us are veterans ourselves. Branch Chair Sam Wigley and county councillors Steve Clegg, Ray Whitaker and David East have all served, and between our councillors and committee, we have served in every one of the armed services.
That experience shapes what we stand for. It’s why a Reform UK North Kesteven District Council would put veterans first, with a named Armed Forces Housing Officer and stronger priority for veterans in genuine housing need. Read our policy on looking after our veterans →
Thank you
Thank you to Jim for joining us and for everything SSAFA volunteers do, and to all the veterans and families who came along. We will remember them.
