Groups urged to apply for funding to marked Armed Forces Day

https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/2026/02/20/groups-urged-to-apply-for-funding-to-marked-armed-forces-day/

Llanelli groups urged to bid for Armed Forces Day funding as UK Government opens £500k pot

Dame Nia Griffith MP — a former Shadow Defence Secretary during Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership — says she will support local organisations applying for a share of the funding, which is designed to help towns and communities celebrate serving personnel, veterans and military families.

Up to £10,000 available for local events

The UK Labour Government says the grants, worth up to £10,000 per event, are aimed at strengthening links between the public and the armed forces. According to the Government, Armed Forces Week is part of its wider plan to “deepen connection between society and our forces”.

Events can include community picnics, barbecues, musical performances, parades, stands run by local military units and veterans’ charities, hands‑on activities and talks from serving personnel. Applications close on 30 March 2026.

Dame Nia said she wants to see Llanelli groups take full advantage.

Dame Nia Griffith MP said:

“The people of Llanelli proudly back our armed forces community. I’m delighted this government is helping to fund these important events and I will do whatever I can to support local bids so our whole community can come together.”

She added that she regularly attends Armed Forces Day, Remembrance and other military events, and looks forward to celebrating again in June.

Government says funding is part of wider commitment

The Government says the grants form part of a broader package of support, including a £9bn programme to repair and renew forces’ housing, the biggest pay rise in two decades, and extending the armed forces covenant.

Defence Secretary John Healey MP said:

“Our Armed Forces make extraordinary sacrifices to keep us safe. 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 urged groups to apply and register their events so the Government can help promote them.

Armed Forces Day returns after being halted in 2023

This year’s Armed Forces Day takes place on 27 June, following a week of celebrations starting on 22 June. It is only the second national event since 2023.

The Government says Armed Forces Day events bring tourism, investment and opportunities for people to learn more about military careers.

Local groups can find full details and apply for funding at: https://www.armedforcesday.org.uk/get-involved/organise-your-own-event/apply-for-funding/

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Prince Harry not mentioned in the social media message today to mark #ArmedForcesDay despite 10yrs honorable service in the British military and wartime service in #Afghanistan as the pilot of an Apache attack helicopter.

I'm not generally a royals watcher or fan, but this seems esp petty, mean-spirited, ungrateful & hypocritical, even for the Windsors. https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/2074608/prince-harry-snubbed-royal-family

Armed Forces Day: A mother’s perspective  

READ HERE:👉 https://bvoices.uk/3I837Vj

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Swansea shows its support for Armed Forces Day

Saturday’s colourful occasion included music, stalls and entertainment in St David’s Place following a church service and march through the city centre.

The Lord Lieutenant took the salute alongside Lord Mayor Cllr Cheryl Philpott, the High Sheriff, Joint Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Andrea Lewis and the council’s Armed Forces Champion Cllr Wendy Lewis.

Cllr Andrea Lewis, said:

“It’s an honour to be able to celebrate the essential work carried out now and in the past by the nation’s service personnel. The celebrations were organised by the military veterans themselves, based on what they want to see on the day. The council backed them with as much support as they needed.

“Our armed forces defend our country and communities; they bring great credit to the country. The council will continue to salute them and acknowledge their valuable contribution.

Cllr Wendy Lewis, the council’s armed forces champion, added:

“The council proudly supports those who serve, our veterans and their families. Saturday’s events were a very special community celebration and it was great to see so many people there for the march and the afternoon’s activities.

The Armed Forces Day events were organised by veterans for veterans and those who serve. It featured a service at Christchurch in Sandfields, followed by a march through the city centre led by the RLC Corps of Drums and all associations, veterans’ groups and military groups were invited to take part. 

Next weekend’s Wales Airshow will feature a Veterans Village which all veterans and their families are welcome to visit.

[Lead image: Swansea Council]

#ArmedForcesDay #Swansea