AS Remembrance Day approaches one military charity in the Borders has offered a timely reminder of the need to continue supporting ex-service personnel.

The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) has been providing vital lifelong support to servicemen and women as well as their families for over 130 years.

From the elderly World War II veteran with mobility problems, to soldiers seriously wounded in Iraq or Afghanistan, SSAFA’s ability to adapt to the changing needs of the service community means they will be there when needed.

Adrian Lucas, chairman of SSAFA in the Borders, told us: "At this time of year, our thoughts turn to the brave servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice whilst serving our nation.

"Whilst our forces are not in the public eye since we withdrew from Afghanistan, they are busier than ever deployed throughout the world, whether assisting with post hurricane restoration, rescuing migrants in the Mediterranean Sea or in dangerous areas of conflict.

"It is not just those on the frontline who are affected.

"Conflict can also have a devastating impact on those left at home – the mums, dads, wives, partners, children, brothers and sisters."

The SSAFA, also known as The Forces Charity, allocates a case worker to each individual case.

And they remain a support until the charity has provided whatever is needed.

The SSAFA also has two ‘home-from-homes’ allowing seriously injured troops to spend much-needed time with their families.

They also run family support groups for those coping with a sudden bereavement or coming to terms with life-changing injury to a loved one.

The Forces Charity has a UK network of 7,000 trained volunteers on hand to provide practical, financial and emotional support whenever anyone turns to us for help.

Mr Lucas added: "The Borders area branch of SSAFA provides a lifetime of support to servicemen and women and their dependants.

"We’re here for them long after conflicts have become history.

"Unlike the subject of the BBC’s recent expose of some bogus military charities, every penny of or money raised really does go to veterans and their families we have no paid or remunerated people within our branch."

If you think SSAFA Forces Help can assist you or someone you know, or if you are interested in volunteering, contact the Borders Branch on 01361 883335 or visit www.ssafa.org.uk