MANY of us will have been affected by news of the increasing casualties and loss of life among British troops in Afghanistan this year.

With Remembrance Sunday looming this weekend it is time to remember not only those who fought so bravely in the last century, but also those serving their country now.

Many servicemen and women have been killed or seriously wounded in action this year, leaving many families dealing with a sudden bereavement or struggling to help a loved one come to terms with a life-changing injury.

Conflict affects not only the men and women on the front line, but also their relatives and partners.

In the past 18 months the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help has opened two “homes from home” for seriously injured troops and their families and launched vital support groups for bereaved families and the families of injured service personnel.

Last year alone, our Durham branch was able to assist 700 people.

Anyone who has given just one day’s paid service is eligible for SSAFA’s support.

To learn more about how SSAFA can help you, someone you know, or to volunteer, please contact the Durham Branch on 0191-383-9452 or visit www.ssafa.org.uk

Les Hutchison, Durham Branch Secretary, SSAFA.