Joe's 48 Hour Sleepout On The Main Street Portadown

Hi, my name is Joe, I'm raising money on behalf of Blesma and Beyond the Battlefield,

Blesma The Limbless Veterans -

️ Origins and History ️

-Founded in 1932 Blesma began as the *British Limbless Ex-Servicemen’s Association.

- Its roots trace back to World War I, when wounded soldiers—many of whom had lost limbs—formed support networks while recovering in hospitals like Roehampton and Erskine.

- These informal groups evolved into formal branches across the UK, culminating in a national organization dedicated to helping limbless veterans rebuild their lives.

Mission and Purpose

- Blesma supports serving and ex-Service men and women who have:

- Lost limbs

- Lost the use of limbs

- Lost sight or an eye

- The charity provides lifelong support, including:

- Emotional and psychological care

- Financial and benefits advice

- Practical assistance with mobility, prosthetics, and equipment

- Social and rehabilitation activities.

Beyond the Battlefield -

Northern Ireland was the backdrop to a conflict that lasted for more than 40 years. During that time over 140,000 people served in either a combat or Emergency Services role, putting their lives on the line on a daily basis. Beyond the Battlefield was formed as a charity to look after the wellbeing of these very people in both parts of the island of Ireland. The charity fulfils a number of roles. Much of its work is concentrated on working with a group of counsellors in order to assess and treat those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This service is open to all service personnel, together with members of the police and Emergency Services. Of course, PTSD often causes associated problems, including alcohol and drug abuse, suicidal thoughts, financial difficulties and self-harm. Beyond the Battlefield is committed to providing support to those suffering from any of these issues.

Beyond the Battlefield also performs a series of different tasks aimed at improving the lives of the ex-service community.

These include:

Forming a befriending service.

Ensuring veterans are aware and are receiving all the benefits to which they are entitled.

Lobbying the government to change the law on things like unemployment and sickness benefits.

In short, Beyond the Battlefield is a charity that listens, treats, and gives on-going advice and help to the many courageous veterans who have served for their country.