Wimbledon Armed Forces charity SSAFA secures Community Heroes boost

We're pleased to announce the SSAFA as a runner-up in our 2026 Community Heroes initiative, recognising the charity’s dedication and positive impact on its local area of Wimbledon, London.

Battling against more than 300 other applicants during April, the charity was selected by a panel of judges including TV tradesperson Rob Bent, who launched the campaign with us in March this year, after research found that half* (48%) of Brits say community spaces have disappeared in their neighbourhoods.

SSAFA provides support for past and present members of the armed forces and their families, helping them ease into life post-service. They support individuals facing challenges such as mental health struggles, debt, homelessness and disability through their services, which include accommodation, emotional and financial support, disability support and mentoring. SSAFA reaches individuals at vulnerable moments, helping them to regain stability and independence after military service.

Thanks to the win, SSAFA has secured £1,000 to spend in its local store, Selco Wimbledon, which it plans to use to continue to enhance the services they offer. The building materials purchased with this funding will prove particularly beneficial to improve the living conditions for the former servicepeople living within SSAFA housing, helping them to have a comfortable and safe space to adjust to life after the armed forces.

Julie Parlett, Housing Manager at The Royal Homes, said: “SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, is thrilled with this Community Heroes award, which shows the high regard the UK’s Armed Forces - and our charity – are held in. Thank you to all at Selco; you’re helping us keep our promise that no-one in the military community will ever battle alone.”

Now in its sixth year – and with a bigger prize fund than ever before at £62,000 – our Selco Community Heroes initiative is designed to benefit small community projects that are building brighter futures for their local areas.

Simon Humpage, Head of Multichannel Marketing, said: “At Selco, we’re greatly moved by the work of SSAFA, how they support veterans and their families through some of life’s toughest moments and create a life-changing impact.

“Their dedication to the cause reflects the spirit of Community Heroes and the values that we’re passionate about supporting at Selco, which is why we’re proud to stand alongside them on their journey.”

Local charities and community projects are encouraged to find out more about Community Heroes and apply online.