Although many of the Corps’ original units no longer exist, the benevolence goals enshrined within the Trust’s original objectives are still as relevant today as they were when the Fund was first created.

The RAC Memorial Trust continues to support retired and serving soldiers, their spouses and families, and the spouses and families of those who have died in service, when in need.

The Trust is able to pledge a sum up to the amount offered by the individual regiment or, if that regiment no longer exists, the Trust may take on full responsibility for supporting the individual.  Further support is regularly made available from the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF), the Royal British Legion (RBL), or other military and civilian charities, co-ordinated by the individual’s case worker.

Requests are many and varied. Sadly not all demands can always be met and we are unable to assist in resolving debt issues. However, for instance, the Trust has proudly supported the purchase of mobility aids, the replacement of household items,  the provision of special educational needs as well as individual health care treatments not fully covered by the NHS.

In order to ensure we can, where appropriate, provide support quickly, please do not contact the Trust directly in the first instance, as this will only slow the immediate response.

If you are a:

• • Serving soldier or the dependant of a serving soldier please contact your Unit Welfare Officer, Personnel Recovery Officer, Resettlement Officer, or the Army Welfare Service.

or

• • Veteran, or the dependant of a veteran, or a widow or widower please contact your local SSAFA office or your Royal British Legion office or, if you are in Scotland, Poppy Scotland.  You can find your nearest branch by clicking on the links above.

or

• • Caseworker please use the guidance and contact numbers provided on your Casework Management System.

Please note that in order for the Trust to provide support, each request needs to be accompanied by a written confidential report. Either SSAFA or RBL provides the Trust with this background information to the case. Therefore, it is important to contact SSAFA or RBL in the first instance, in order to speed up the Trust’s ability to provide appropriate assistance.

In this vital work the Trust continues to honour the clearly defined aims of the original Fund, as stated by its first patrons:

“The ultimate intention is that no officer or man who at any time serves in the Royal Armoured Corps, or his dependants, shall go without help if in need.”

THE ROYAL ARMOURED CORPS MEMORIAL TRUST (RACMT) TERMS FOR A MILITARY EFFICIENCY GRANT

1. Background to RACMT. The Trust was established after the 2nd World War in 1946 when the then members of the RAC were eager to create a fitting memorial to their fallen comrades. As a living part of that memorial, the originators wanted to promote the military efficiency of those currently serving in RAC while also providing for those in need no longer serving.
2. Our Purpose and What We Will Fund. The Trust wants to make a difference so that current RAC serving members are better trained and properly prepared for operations, by promoting activities or experiences that enhance the military efficiency of the RAC. Examples are:

1. 1. Improving technical, academic, and professional knowledge.
   2. Improving mental and physical fitness through the provision of sporting facilities, equipment and competitions that improve the health, wellbeing, and cohesion of the RAC. Please note, legally we are barred from funding anyone who earns their living by playing sport professionally.
   3. The provision of supplementary experiences that widen the mind such as adventure expeditions that develop knowledge, confidence and leadership skills.
   4. Promoting and strengthening the bonds between the RAC and allied units.
   5. Research and the publication of military history specific to the RAC.
2.  
3. Who can Apply. Only current serving members of the RAC may apply. We will not fund persons who are not serving members of the RAC unless the project or activity could not take place without their involvement.  (e.g. Consultants, specialist leaders, trainers, mentors, referees, umpires etc).
4. Time Frame. Applications should be single stage and usually completed within a single year.
5. Match Funding. Applicants are expected to provide match funding of 25% of the total gross cost from other sources, but 100% grants may be awarded.
6. Available Funding. Our funds are limited and the total sum available for military efficiency grants will vary from year to year due to the demand for benevolent grants which will always take priority. The Trustee’s decision is final. 
7. Assessment. The assessment process is competitive meaning we will not be able to fund all the good quality applications. Trustees when assessing an application will consider:

1. 1. The focus of the project and the contribution it makes to our purpose of advancing the military efficiency of the RAC.
   2. The need and opportunity the application is responding to.
   3. The size of the applicant’s contribution and percentage of match funding.
   4. The number of RAC soldiers who will benefit from the outcomes of your application.
   5. The project’s cost effectiveness and value for money.
   6. The quality of the application and the overall management of the project.
   7. Up to 3 letters of support.
   8. Its potential to support promoting RACMT.

8. Applications Process.

1. 1. Before submitting your application, you are strongly advised to discuss your proposal with the Chairman.
   2. Applications can be submitted at any time to the Secretary RACMT by email to Secretary@racmt.org
   3. Your applications will be acknowledged within two weeks by email.
   4. The decision to make or not make an award will usually be made within 2 months from receipt of your application.
   5. Application Form. See Annex A.
   6. The Trustee’s decision is final.

9. Funding. We will consider funding for:

9. 1. Project development.
   2. Travel, if by car based on 45p/mile, reasonable accommodation, and expenses.
   3. Insurance for travel and equipment which must be insured.
   4. A contingency of 10% of the total project cost for unexpected costs if applicable to the project.
   5. Inflation if the project runs over one year.
   6. Promotion of your project.
   7. Training and minor running costs including equipment.
   8. Professionals employed to ensure the success of the project, even though they may not be members of the RAC.
   9. Any individual cost or item priced at more than £500 must be supported by 3 quotes.

10. Receiving a Grant. The terms are:

1. 1. Any cost incurred before the grant is awarded will not be accepted, unless previously agreed by Trustees.
   2. The letter awarding the grant is to be treated by you as your permission to start, which you must acknowledge by email. Any specific terms or conditions relating to your project will be included by you in this letter.
   3. When awarding a grant, we will inform you of any specific dates or specific terms that must be met by you.
   4. Invoices can be paid by us directly to a supplier if you so wish.
   5. Copies of all receipts for costs must be attached by you to your final report.
   6. Your final report with a breakdown of costs and receipts are to be submitted to us within 3 months of the project’s completion.
   7. You agree to give us the copy right of up to 12 images provided by you, for us to use if we so wish to promote the RACMT.
   8. All publicity communications in any format must acknowledge our contribution and show our logo.
   9. We will not pay you more than the grant we award unless agreed by us in advance.

11. Conclusion. Trustees wish to support those serving today by enhancing the military efficiency of RAC through this living memorial.

The application form for a military efficiency grant can be opened by clicking this link. Please save it to your device and follow instructions set out in the form.

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You can donate and gift aid it by visiting Donate to The Royal Armoured Corps Memorial Trust | Wonderful.org.

There is also the option of leaving a lasting legacy to the Trust as described below.

 

 

Five steps to leaving a lasting legacy to the Royal Armoured Corps Memorial Trust

1. Consider what you have to leave and who you wish to benefit

In order to advise on preparing your will, you will need to consider the value of your estate including any assets held abroad and who you wish to benefit under your will. If in doubt we advise you to consult with a solicitor.

2. Decide which type of legacy is right for you

Your solicitor will be able to advise you on your available options and help you to decide the most appropriate type of legacy gift to leave to the Royal Armoured Corps Memorial Trust.

The three basic types of legacy are:

• • • A specific legacy - gift of a particular item, e.g. a house, a car, a boat, the contents of a specific bank account, or a piece of jewellery.
    • A pecuniary legacy - gift of a specified sum of money, which can be index-linked so that it holds its value.
    • A residuary bequest - the residue of an estate is what is left over after the payment of debts, funeral expenses, all taxes, administration costs and any legacies. The bequest would be expressed as the whole of the residue or as a percentage (e.g. 25%) or a share (e.g. 1/4).

Many people choose to leave the Trust a residuary gift because it keeps pace with inflation and allows you to ensure your loved ones are well looked after first and foremost.

3. Learn about your tax options

Any amount you leave to charity will usually be exempt from Inheritance Tax (IHT). The standard Inheritance Tax rate is 40% but if you decide to leave 10% or more of the ‘net value’ of your estate to charity, a reduced rate of 36% may apply. The net value of your estate is the total value as at the date of your death of all your assets minus any debts. Not all estates are subject to Inheritance Tax (IHT) but it is important that you consider and discuss your tax position with your solicitor.

4. Talk to a solicitor about your will

Your will is an important and personal document. A free will service, available from some solicitors, is suitable for most simple wills and estates. However, we recommend The Law Society (www.solicitors.lawsociety.org.uk) or STEP (www.step.org) for more information on finding a reputable solicitor local to you.

5. Share our details with your solicitor. Registered name: The Royal Armoured Corps Memorial Trust
   Address: The Secretary RACMT, c/o HQ RAC, Allenby Barracks, Bovington Camp, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 6JB
   Registered Charity number: 1104235

6. All legacies and donations to the RAC Memorial Trust are very gratefully received. We can assure you that all sums received, whether large or small, will be put to good use looking after both veteran as well as serving members of the Royal Armoured Corps and their families, and in honouring the memory of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country.

 

“We will remember them”