Bournemouth Above And Beyond Trust was founded in December 2014 as a direct reaction to the tragic death of a young serviceman who had returned from Afghanistan and ended up freezing to death in a church doorway. One of its founders recalls helping a Korean War Veteran in a similar situation back in the 1970s and from that friendship developed a sympathy and understanding towards those who suffer from PTSD and a desire to help veterans reintegrate back into 'civvy street'. Since then the charity has quietly worked its way into the Dorset veterans & Military fabric, steadily building a reputation for kindness, compassion, understanding and doing something positive to help & support veterans!
The charity is now part of the Pan-Dorset Armed Forces Military Covenant, an initiative by the Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner to help veterans who have come through the Criminal Justice System get back on their feet and into a sustainable career pathway. The charity runs several programs, such as the Veterans Woodland & Forestry Management course which provides vocational training and commercial qualifications in chainsaw use & maintenance and Emergency 1st Aid Worker + Forestry.
The charity also has a waterfront boatshed located at Southbourne where it delivers poly-vagal water-sports therapy through surfing, Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) and other activities.
Everyone can donate directly to BAABT or if you prefer, support them via the Veterans Raffle