The RAF Association

The RAF Association was formed in 1943 and for over 60 years has been providing care and support to serving and retired members of the Royal Air Forces and their dependants.

Receiving no direct funding from Government or the MoD, generating voluntary income to enable us to undertake our welfare and care work is the key objective for the organisation.

The annual Wings appeal is the cornerstone of this raising over £2 million in 2005, through members undertaking collections in the street, at supermarkets and holding events along with many other activities. The focus is the anniversary of the Battle of Britain in September but Wings fundraising takes place throughout the year.

Also key is The Annual Grand Draw raising circa £200,000 each year, and Association staff and members are also involved in air shows, marathons and fun runs to fundraise.

These events generate important income for the 523 RAF Association Branches throughout the UK, attract new members, and raise the awareness of the charity with the public and current and past members of the RAF.

Legacies are an important source for all charities. At present we attract around £1 million but it is believed that this is an area capable of further development. We also undertake as number of mailings each year.

No membership Association can 'stand still' and we are actively seeking to recruit new members - from 18 year old Air Cadets to those within the Air Force, those with an affinity with our charitable aims to the more mature adult coming to the close of their careers. A growing and vibrant membership is vital to the continued future of the Association.

If you wish to join the Association, then please visit RAF Association Website by clicking on the link below and completing the appropriate membership form. http://www.rafa.org.uk/membership-onlineapplication.asp