Supporting those who support us: why events like the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch matter

Members of the Bolt Burdon Kemp military claims team joined hundreds of leaders and decision makers across the City of London for its annual military fundraiser – the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch.

This flagship event brought together more than 1,600 leaders from across industries, as well as the Duke of Gloucester as royal guest of honour, to raise vital funds for members of His Majesty’s Armed Forces community. Since its inception in 2008, it has raised more than £4.2 million, while increasing awareness of the challenges faced when transitioning to civilian life.

Our military claims team include solicitors with first-hand experience of military life, including former members of the Royal Navy and the Army. We’re dedicated to representing service personnel, veterans and their families – individuals who have given so much in service of the country – and our lived experience informs not only the advice we provide, but the causes we choose to support.

We see daily the long-term impact that service can have – physically, psychologically and financially. Supporting events like this is one way we can stand alongside the Armed Forces community beyond the courtroom.

The Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch supports three principal charities:

• Army Benevolent Fund – the Army’s national charity, providing lifelong support to soldiers, veterans and their families in times of need.
• Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity – offering lifelong support to sailors, Marines and their families, including welfare grants and morale-boosting initiatives.
• Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund – supporting RAF personnel, veterans and their dependents through practical, emotional and financial assistance.

Together, these charities ensure that no member of the Armed Forces community is left behind. Over the years, they have distributed millions in funding, supporting everything from immediate financial hardship to long-term rehabilitation and employment pathways.

Importantly, the impact of this event goes beyond immediate financial support. A key focus in recent years has been employability – helping veterans successfully transition into civilian careers.

Initiatives funded through the event, such as employment and training programmes, provide veterans with practical tools, confidence, and direction after service. This reflects the broader understanding that supporting veterans is not just about addressing need but enabling long-term independence and dignity.

As a firm acting for Armed Forces personnel, we understand that service does not end when someone leaves the military. The effects – both positive and challenging – can last a lifetime.

So supporting the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch is more than simply attending an event. It is about recognising the contribution of those who serve, supporting organisations that provide essential, lifelong care, and strengthening the bridge between the Armed Forces and civilian society.

We are proud to attend this year’s event alongside our guests and peers across the City. It is an opportunity not only to raise funds, but to reaffirm a shared commitment: that those who serve are supported during service, and long after it ends.