Member Spotlight: Blesma

Blesma, The Limbless Veterans was formed in the years following the First World War and became a national charity in 1932. Today, Blesma remains the national charity for serving and ex-Service men and women who have suffered limb loss, loss of use of a limb, or eyesight; and well as their widows and dependents.

Blesma support its Members to lead independent and fulfilling lives by providing:

• Front-line emotional, financial, and practical support from regional Support Officers.
• A dedicated Support Officer for Prosthetics.
• Community-based Outreach Officers in 10 areas UK-wide.

Financial support is provided through help to cover the costs of wheelchairs, ramps, stairlifts and other home and garden adaptations to help limbless and injured veterans access all areas of their homes and remain living as independently as possible within their communities.

Staying active after injury is essential to continued health and well-being, and Blesma’s annual activities programme caters for every level and ability, from beginner to serious adventurer. With pursuits ranging from photography to winter sports, the activities programme helps Blesma Members come together to learn new skills, expand their horizons, and gain confidence in their abilities and self-esteem after limb loss.

Fellowship lies at the heart of what we do and applies our knowledge of Members’ shared experiences, of traumatic injury, recuperation and eventual stability. We encourage a Member-helping-Member mentality and empower Members to naturally share their experiences in order to support each other.

Our programmes allow Members and their families to face the challenges ahead with renewed confidence and self-belief.

For more information or to seek assistance, please contact Blesma at 020 8590 1124 or visit their website at www.blesma.org.