The Royal Air Force’s new Charity Charter sets out a clear, united ambition: to ensure that every member of the serving community – and the families who stand beside them—has the support, resources, and resilience they need to thrive. Spanning 2026 to 2030, the Charter cements a shared commitment between the RAF and its charity partners, building on decades of cooperation to deliver welfare and wellbeing support far beyond what the Service could achieve alone.
Since the formation of the RAF, the charity sector has been an enduring ally. Today, that partnership remains essential. From advocacy and specialist guidance to community activities and crisis support, RAF charities help bridge gaps, respond quickly to emerging needs, and offer care tailored to the realities of Service life. The Charter recognises this collaborative strength and seeks to harness it fully by aligning priorities, sharing research, and ensuring every programme adds meaningful value.
Who the Charter Supports
The Charter’s reach is intentionally broad. Through the RAF People and Families team – guided by the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff and Director People – the Charter supports:
- All Regular and Reserve personnel
- Their families
- Individuals at every stage of the Service journey, including transition out
Whether someone has just joined, is navigating the pressures of deployment, or is preparing for civilian life, the Charter ensures their needs remain at the forefront.
How the RAF Will Deliver This Commitment
A core element of the Charter is the RAF’s promise to be an empathetic, responsive organisation. This includes listening actively to individuals, recognising diverse circumstances, safeguarding privacy, and resolving issues quickly—especially around accommodation, families, and welfare support. Clear communication, fair decision-making, and effective signposting to charity partners all form part of this strengthened approach.
A Vision for a Resilient, Connected Community
At its heart, the Charity Charter exists to enhance wellbeing—physical, mental, and emotional. Its vision is simple yet powerful: to improve the lived experience of today’s serving community while laying foundations for future generations.
By fostering resilience, the Charter aims to ensure RAF people feel valued, supported, and able to overcome adversity. For those considering joining the Service, the Charter helps shape a compelling RAF ‘Offer’. For those leaving it, the goal is to feel appreciated long after their final day in uniform.
The Charter is more than policy—it’s a renewed promise to the people who make the RAF what it is.
