Ulster Defence Regiment Benevolent Fund

The Ulster Defence Regiment Benevolent Fund, established in 1972, is a Northern Ireland-based charity dedicated to supporting former members of the Ulster Defence Regiment (UDR) of all ranks and their dependants—including widows, widowers, and children—who face hardship from sickness, disability, poverty, trauma, or adversity linked to service during the Troubles. Rooted in regimental comradeship, its mission emphasises confidential, non-discriminatory aid to fill gaps in statutory support, upholding values of discretion, compassion, and dignity for this unique veteran community, with some eligibility extended to equivalent Royal Irish Regiment Home Service members.

It funds needs-led grants for urgent relief, essential living expenses, medical interventions, home adaptations, respite care, specialist equipment, and wellbeing activities like reconciliation events, prioritising those affected by service-related financial, health, or social exclusion in Northern Ireland. Support targets individuals resident in the region experiencing crises such as debt, homelessness risk, disability, bereavement, or psychological legacy of conflict, often partnering with Veterans Welfare Service NI.

Eligibility is strictly for former UDR personnel/dependants (or select Royal Irish equivalents) in Northern Ireland; organisations, charities, or non-residents are ineligible, with no income thresholds. Applications start with a rolling-basis Expression of Interest form via website/email/post/phone, followed by full submission with proof of service and need evidence; urgent cases decided in days, standard in weeks. Typical grants range from hundreds to several thousand pounds case-by-case. Distinctively, it avoids organisational funding, capital projects, or general causes, focusing exclusively on this regimental group's tailored, immediate relief.