Lloyd’s Patriotic Fund becomes Lloyd’s Veterans Charity

The Lloyd’s Patriotic Fund has rebranded as Lloyd’s Veterans Charity, adopting a new name intended to make its purpose clearer across the market.

Formed in Lloyd’s coffee house in 1803, Lloyd’s Veterans Charity has served for 223 years as a conduit for funds raised within the market to support military veterans and their families.

The charity makes grants to non profit organisations following an application and selection process.

Current recipients include The Forces Employment Charity, which supports military spouses and partners into employment, and Scotty’s Little Soldiers, which supports bereaved military children.

Since 2010, 47 charities have received grants totalling £3.86m.

The charity’s lead donor is the Corporation of Lloyd’s, alongside managing agencies, broking firms and individuals from across the market.

It works closely with the Lloyd’s and City branch of the Royal British Legion, the Lloyd’s Military Network and other groups across the market and beyond.

Chairman Brigadier Edward Butler said: “As we move from the background into the centre of our market’s awareness, the trustees felt that our historic brand, forged during the Napoleonic Wars, was no longer resonant among all the individuals of our community.

“We do not turn our back on even a moment of our history, but we’re looking ahead with a new name, and a look fit for the 21st century.”

Butler added: “Lloyd’s Veterans Charity is a clear moniker which leaves no doubt as to our community and our purpose.

“I encourage everyone in the London insurance market, whether you have ties to the military or simply wish to express your gratitude to those who have served, to lend us your support.”

Sir Charles Roxburgh, chairman of Lloyd’s, said: “Whilst of course we all want Lloyd’s to remain the innovative insurance marketplace of the future, we have some very long traditions.

“Lloyd’s Patriotic Fund, now Lloyd’s Veterans Charity, is one of the finest of those extraordinary old institutions in our market.

“I’m proud to pledge the continued support of the Corporation of Lloyd’s to LVC through our annual contribution,” he said.

Benjamin Hancock, the new chair of the Lloyd’s and City of London branch Royal British Legion, said: “The Lloyd’s and City Branch have worked closely with Lloyd’s Veterans Charity over many years, and are fully supportive of them as they adapt to ensure they can best support the veteran community.”

Dom Sweny, chair of the Lloyd’s Military Network, said: “The Lloyd’s community is home to a large contingent of ex military, and we’re always welcoming more.

“The work of LVC to support veterans, their families, and especially those transitioning into civvy street has been going on for centuries.

“We’re behind them as they adopt this strong new name and logo,” Sweny added.