The RNBT Celebrates 103 Years with the Launch of a New Five-Year Strategy and Opening of Regional Help Hubs

Portsmouth, UK – On 2 May 2025, The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust (The RNBT) proudly marks its 103rd anniversary since its founding by Royal Charter in 1922. To commemorate this milestone, The Trust is launching an ambitious new five-year strategy designed to enhance its support for the Royal Navy community across the UK.

The new strategy sets out four key priorities:

• Strengthening community engagement and benevolence
• Enhancing The RNBT culture through people and governance
• Improving operational efficiency and capacity
• Ensuring financial sustainability and stability

This strategy will act as a roadmap for the organisation, enabling The RNBT to deliver on immediate objectives while maintaining flexibility to adapt to future challenges. Continuous monitoring and evaluation will ensure the Trust remains responsive to the changing needs of the community it serves.

A National Presence – RNBT Help Hubs Launched

As part of the strategy, The RNBT will establish regional Help Hubs across the UK to broaden its national reach. These hubs will serve as vital connection points for the Royal Navy community, providing localised advice, support, and signposting, while also building strong community partnerships and raising awareness of the services available.

Today, our first two local hubs serving Scotland and the South West of England officially open, with additional locations planned in the North, the Midlands, South Wales and the South East. Our Hubs will be phased in over the five-year period, based on the evolving needs of the communities.

To build awareness nationally of the support we provide, we have also launched a new digital awareness campaign called ‘‘Hope Is Just a Phone Call Away’, featuring RNBT beneficiaries  telling their stories, in their own words, of how the RNBT has been there when they needed it.

A Legacy of Service, A Future of Impact

“As we look to the future, this strategy reaffirms our unwavering commitment to serving the Royal Navy family,” said Debbie Dollner, Chief Executive. “The launch of our Help Hubs and this forward-looking strategy ensure we remain rooted in our mission — offering timely, practical and compassionate support.”

Read and download the full strategy document here: OUR Strategy: 2025-2030 Putting people at the heart of The RNBT.

About The RNBT

The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust provides financial assistance and support to serving and former Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel and their families. Founded in 1922, RNBT has a proud legacy of compassion, commitment, and community.

To find out how The RNBT can help you, contact our confidential Helpline by calling 02394 216294 or sending an email to help@rnbt.org.uk. 

Do you have other enquiries or want to learn how you or your organisation can get involved with The RNBT? Contact our headquarters at rnbt@rnbt.org.uk or 02392 690112.