BBK joins military fundraiser for life-changing rehabilitation centre

At Bolt Burdon Kemp we do whatever we can to support those who serve in the Armed Forces, and that goes beyond civil claims and lobbying for better conditions.

We recently attended a charity evening at military members’ club the Victory Services Club in London, which was raising vital funds for the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre – a state-of-the-art recovery facility for military service personnel.

We hosted a table of guests who are all serving personnel working across the recovery space and it was a pleasure to hear about the work they do supporting those in the forces who are facing health challenges or are transitioning to civilian life.

I was medically discharged from the Royal Navy in 2013 and know firsthand how difficult those challenges can be. I was amazed to hear how support has improved. My injury journey wasn’t easy and the support available now wasn’t available 12 to 13 years ago – or at least not to me. I was met with hostility while trying to prepare for transition and was given a job title but no purposeful role. It was truly wonderful to hear from our guests at the recovery team about how much has changed – the physical, mental and welfare support available if someone wishes to engage – and the positive impact this is all having.

The evening was a reminder that injuries in the military can happen anytime, anyplace, not only on the front line, and support for those who protect us is needed now more than ever.

Located at Stanford Hall near Loughborough, DMRC provides world class medical rehabilitation to members of the UK’s Armed Forces who have suffered serious injuries or illness. The centre offers a unique, holistic approach – combining advanced clinical care, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychological support and bespoke adaptive sports programmes.

Its mission is to help those who have given so much serving their country reclaim their independence, regain their strength, and return, wherever possible, to full duties or to fulfilling civilian lives. The dedication of the medical staff, therapists and support teams is remarkable, and the facilities are purpose-built to deliver the highest standards of recovery and wellbeing.

Among the night’s guests were supporters, military families, healthcare professionals and charities, all committed to one shared goal – ensuring the DMRC continues to thrive.

Hearing the stories of those who have benefited from the DMRC’s work was humbling. Their courage and determination reminded us why it’s so important to maintain access to such exceptional rehabilitation support.

With actor and comedian Antony Cotton at the helm of the evening’s fundraising, donors couldn’t resist his cheeky encouragement to bid higher on some wonderful auction lots kindly donated by supporters of the charity.

The money raised will help enhance facilities, support pioneering research and provide additional services that go beyond what core funding can cover.

At Bolt Burdon Kemp, we are proud to represent injured service personnel and veterans, helping them secure the compensation, care and rehabilitation they deserve. We see every day how life-changing injuries affect individuals and their families – physically, emotionally, and financially.

Centres like DMRC play a vital role in recovery, helping bridge the gap between hospital treatment and everyday life. Supporting their work aligns closely with our Manifesto for Injured People – ensuring that those who protect us receive the support they need to rebuild their futures.

We are honoured to play even a small part in championing this cause and will continue to advocate for better access to rehabilitation and long-term care for all who have served.