The Royal British Legion (RBL) is seeking new volunteers for this year’s Poppy Appeal across Somerset as the RBL celebrates its centenary in 2021.
Last year, the RBL lost millions of pounds in donations after face-to-face collections were cancelled for the first time in the charity’s history due to the Covid pandemic.
But now the charity is looking for new Poppy Appeal Organisers to cover areas of Taunton and across the county.
The Poppy Appeal last year was forced to adapt to the threat of Covid-19, as the nation showed its support from home instead.
Adam Brown, Community Fundraiser for Somerset, said: “We really want to thank everyone across our region who got involved and supported the Poppy Appeal in 2020, and although we are only in April, work is already in progress for this year’s Appeal.
“We have seen a reduction in the number of our collectors following the pandemic, with many still anxious about returning to their normal way of life, but the RBL still has a job to do and we are optimistic that the Appeal will look very different again this time around.
“The RBL’s work is even more vital than ever as we support people from all generations who have new hardships as a result of Covid -19, which has had a devastating impact on people’s livelihoods right across Somerset, leaving some in our Armed Forces community in dire need of help and support.”
Adam added: “Every year our PAOs play a critical role across the country to meet the huge public demand for our poppies, the nation’s symbol of Remembrance.
“The Appeal raises about half of the funds we need for our welfare work every year and we will launch the Appeal on October 28, but there is a lot of planning before that date, of course. Anyone who volunteers will receive lots of support and enjoyment from taking part.”
Red poppies are worn proudly by the British public from the launch date until Remembrance Sunday or 11 November, whichever is later.
Anyone who would like to get involved this year can email
About the Royal British Legion
The Royal British Legion (RBL) is the UKs largest charity dedicated to supporting the needs of the Armed Forces community, past and present and their families. The RBL is the champion of Remembrance and safeguards the Armed Forces Covenant. It is well known for the annual Poppy Appeal and its emblem the red poppy. For further information, visit rbl.org.uk.
Registered Charity Number: 219279