How The RNBT and Naval Charity Partners Helped Eleanor Rebuild Her Life
Eleanor’s story: From Naval service to overcoming adversity
Eleanor, from Plymouth, served in the Royal Navy from 2000 to 2012. As a steward, her role was to provide hospitality and catering services both at sea and ashore, ensuring the smooth running of shipboard operations and the wellbeing of the crew.
“Those 12 years were magical,” Eleanor reflects. “The experience gave me a chance to discover myself.”
Since leaving the Navy, Eleanor has worked in a local restaurant as a server and cook. But civilian life has brought serious challenges, from family health crises and financial hardship to not one, but two devastating floods in her home over a span of five years.
A year of crisis: 2020
Like many, Eleanor faced a difficult 2020 – but for her, it was truly an annus horribilis.
In July, her father-in-law passed away. Just a month later, flash floods hit Plymouth, damaging her flat and ten neighbouring homes. Due to lockdown restrictions earlier in the year, many of the area’s drains had not been cleared, worsening the impact.
It took seven months before she could return home.
With delays in insurance assessments and other pressing concerns, Eleanor didn’t initially seek outside help. She and her husband stayed in a friend’s spare room before their landlord’s insurance placed them in a hotel. Eventually, insurance covered a new kitchen, redecorated bedroom, and replacement flooring.
Despite their efforts to move, the couple found themselves financially unable to leave the flood-prone flat.
Flooded again: 2024
In 2024, Eleanor’s father was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Her younger sister also experienced a traumatic event. And then, in November, Storm Ciarán struck – flooding her flat for the second time.
This time, the couple were better prepared. Their rental agency responded quickly, and they were rehomed for five weeks. Since then, flood resilience measures have been put in place, such as a barrier at the kitchen door and a new drainage system.
“Since the first flood, we’re always on high alert when it rains. It’s a real source of anxiety,” Eleanor explains. “But we sleep easier now. The flood barrier has brought us peace of mind.”
Finding support through Naval charities
Eleanor first learned about the Lightning Reach portal through financial journalist Martin Lewis. This online tool helps people access over 2,500 support schemes – including The RNBT’s.
Through Lightning Reach, she connected with The Royal British Legion, who supported her with energy costs. SSAFA then referred her to us.
We helped Eleanor replace furniture damaged in the flood. This was vital assistance, as she didn’t have contents insurance. We also provided her with ongoing quarterly charitable payments, which have allowed her to cover essential car repairs and purchase items like an energy-efficient air fryer that’s reduced her gas bill by a third.
“Knowing that The RNBT is there is such a comfort,” Eleanor says in her video. “Even when I’m not sure where I’m going, I know I’m not alone.”
We’re here for you
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. HOPE is just a phone call or email away.
📞 Call: 02394 216294
📩 Email: help@rnbt.org.uk
Whether you are currently serving or retired from the Royal Navy or Royal Marines, The RNBT is here to provide compassionate financial support when it’s needed most – from help with essential living costs and household emergencies to mobility aids and more. Read our Pocket Help Guide to learn more.