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 RAC Memorial Trust is also able to honour the intentions of its original founders by encouraging and supporting individuals, or groups of soldiers, serving in the Corps to undertake activities which will make a positive contribution to their military efficiency.

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.

Who Can Apply

Only current serving members of the RAC may apply.  The Trust cannot 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).

Note that applicants are expected to provide match funding of 25% of the total gross cost from other sources, but 100% grants may be awarded.

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 Trustees’ decision is final.

How to  Apply

In the first instance, contact the Benevolence Coordinator of the RAC Memorial Trust at bencoord@royaltankregiment.org

You will then be asked to complete an application form, in which you will be required to outline the nature of your project, state clearly how this will impact positively on members of the Corps and provide a clear breakdown of funding required.

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 solicitorRegistered name: The Royal Armoured Corps Memorial Trust
   Address: c/o HHQ RTR, Stanley Barracks, Bovington Camp, Nr 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”