Royal Air Force Charitable Trust

Royal Air Force Charitable Trust
Name	Royal Air Force Charitable Trust
Founded	0 2005
Location	RAF College Cranwell, Lincolnshire, England
Key people	Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston (Patron)
Focus	Charitable support for the Royal Air Force community
Website	https://www.rafct.com/

Royal Air Force Charitable Trust. Established in 2005, it is a major charitable entity dedicated to supporting the wider Royal Air Force family and promoting the ethos and heritage of the air force. The trust operates from its headquarters at RAF College Cranwell and functions as an umbrella organization, raising and distributing funds to a wide array of service-related causes. Its work encompasses support for serving personnel, veterans, and their families, as well as initiatives focused on youth engagement and aviation heritage.

History and formation

The trust was formally constituted in 2005, consolidating several existing charitable efforts under a single, more efficient governance structure. Its creation was driven by senior figures within the Royal Air Force and the Ministry of Defence to provide a centralized philanthropic focus. The formation was significantly influenced by the legacy of earlier fundraising bodies associated with the RAF Benevolent Fund and commemorative events like the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. Key early support came from Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup and other high-ranking officers who recognized the need for a dedicated trust to oversee charitable endeavors beyond core welfare.

Objectives and mission

The primary mission is to champion the spirit of the Royal Air Force by funding activities that support its people, preserve its history, and inspire future generations. Core objectives include providing financial assistance to members of the RAF Regiment and their families during times of need, and funding heritage projects related to historic aircraft like the Avro Lancaster. A major focus is on youth engagement through initiatives connected to the Air Training Corps and scholarship programs, aiming to foster skills in aviation and engineering. The trust also aims to support morale and welfare projects for personnel stationed at bases such as RAF Brize Norton and RAF Lossiemouth.

Fundraising and grants

Fundraising is achieved through a diverse portfolio of activities, with its flagship event being the world-renowned Royal International Air Tattoo held annually at RAF Fairford. Major donations are also received from corporate partners like BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce, as well as from philanthropic foundations. The trust administers a grants programme that distributes funds to a wide range of beneficiaries, including smaller charities like the Royal Air Forces Association and specific welfare projects. Significant grants have supported the upkeep of the Royal Air Force Museum London and provided aid through the RAF Central Fund for community sports and adventure training.

Key events and initiatives

The premier event organized is the Royal International Air Tattoo, one of the largest military airshows in the world, which attracts display teams like the Red Arrows and international aircraft. Other major initiatives include the annual Battle of Britain commemorations and supporting the flypasts of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. The trust runs the "Flying for Freedom" appeal, which funds flight experiences for wounded personnel from conflicts such as those in Afghanistan. It also partners with the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises to manage commercial activities that generate surplus income for charitable distribution.

Governance and structure

Governance is overseen by a board of trustees, which includes senior retired officers, business leaders, and representatives from the Royal Air Force. The patron is typically a serving Chief of the Air Staff, such as Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston. Day-to-day operations are managed by a small executive team based at RAF College Cranwell, which reports to the trustees. Financial oversight and audit compliance are handled in accordance with the Charity Commission for England and Wales, ensuring transparency in all operations and grant allocations.

Affiliated organisations

The trust works closely with a network of affiliated charities and entities. These include the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund for welfare support, the Royal Air Force Museum for heritage, and the Royal Air Force Association for veteran comradeship. It maintains a strong operational relationship with Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises, its trading arm. Other key partners are the Air Cadet Organisation, the Royal Air Force Sports Federation, and heritage bodies responsible for sites like the RAF Hawkinge museum. Collaboration with the Royal British Legion on joint remembrance projects is also common.

Category:Charities based in the United Kingdom Category:Royal Air Force Category:Organisations associated with the British military Category:2005 establishments in the United Kingdom