April’s Branch Meeting was held at the Canary Social Club on 11 April 2017 with 48 members attending.
The usual formalities were observed with a minute’s silence for those that have crossed the bar, followed by reports from:
Chairman
Welcomed two new members to the Branch, being S/M’s Daren Mason and Paul Day and presented Bill Martin with his ID Card and RNA Badge.
Continued by sharing his view that the Branch had a successful AGM at the March meeting, and those who have put their names forward for Branch positions bodes well for the future.
Commented on the Branch activities during this past month, highlighting the very successful Breakfast Club held at Little Melton, giving thanks to Gus and Nev for organising it. The venue was ideal and a number of members attended. The Branch must now try and get even more to attend, praising the event will get the message across and he would like all those who attended and had a good time to advertise the fact.
Finished by reminding all members that at 1030 on Saturday 29th April a remembrance service will be held at Earlham Cemetery to remember those who died during the Baedeker Raids on Norwich. He has been informed that this is not a parade but a service and all are welcome. The part of the Cemetery where the service is being held is in the west part, County side of the Ring Road. There is some parking available.
Secretary
Read a report from the Sea Cadet Liaison Officer.
Welfare Secretary
Requested that all members check if you have documentation relating to your Armed Forces Service. The reason being should you ever need assistance from SSAFA or the RBL in the future, you must be able to provide proof of service. If this cannot be provided, this will cause long delays. A simple form can be supplied to be completed and obtain proof of service. Widowers can also apply.
The Costessey Branch of the RBL have organised a day trip to Duxford Air Show during Battle of Britain Week, 24th of September. Cost per person is expected to be £33 per head. Of which the entrance fee which is included in the cost is £23 per head. Should be an excellent day out. If interested, please contact Stewart Blackburn on 01603 745501 or 07905411674
Finally reminded all Shipmates of the Aged Veterans Counselling. To be eligible for this service you must have been born before 1st Jan 1950. The service is free as its funded by the MOD’s Aged Veterans Fund and the consortium s led by Blind Veterans UK who are joined by BLESMA, Royal Naval Association, Scottish War Blinded and STOLL. They cover a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, loneliness, bereavement or anything that is causing a sense of isolation, loss or social exclusion. They have a 24/7 help line 0300 0120 247 and can also be contacted on agedveteranscounselling.org.uk/request-counselling or enquires@agedveteranscounselling.co.uk.
Social Secretary
Provided an update on forthcoming events:
Forthcoming Events
29th Apr – Service of Remembrance – Baedeker Raids on Norwich – 1030 at Earlham Cemetery
06th May – Run Ashore – 2000 at the William IV Inn
May Branch Meeting will be a quiz night.
Next Breakfast Club – 4th June at The Premier Inn, Nelson Hotel, Norwich city centre
July Summer Luncheon – 16th July at Bawburgh Golf Club 1300 (See list for details). The list will close at the June Branch Meeting.
S/M Pat Whiley advised that a lunch is organised for the Oaklands on 26 April. The price is £3.95 a head providing you buy a drink, 12 names are needed for the booking.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
S/M Phil Coates
Advised that he would provide an update for the minute’s regards ensuring Doctors are notified of Veteran Status:
A veteran is defined as someone who has served in the Armed Forces for at least one day.
All veterans are entitled to priority access to NHS care (including hospital, primary or community care) for conditions associated to their time within the armed forces (service-related). However, this is always subject to clinical need and does not entitle you to jump the queue ahead of someone with a higher clinical need.
If the NHS service you are dealing with is unaware of priority treatment, you are actively encouraged to tell them about it and ensure you have told them that you have served.
IAW The Armed Forces Covenant states: Those injured in Service, whether physically or mentally, should be cared for in a way which reflects the Nation’s moral obligation to them whilst respecting the individual’s wishes. For those with concerns about their mental health, where symptoms may not present for some time after leaving Service, they should be able to access services with health professionals who have an understanding of Armed Forces culture.
The key point to remember is that although it states veterans are entitled to priority care, it is only for conditions that are service-related.
The next meeting is on Tuesday 9th May 2017 at 19:30.
