Social Programme

We run a very active yearly programme which include weekend trips away, an annual dinner/dance, social evenings and attendance at events in the local area. We also take part in an annual weekend of celebration at the No. 4 Area Reunion Rally held in Bideford. Take a look at our News and Events section, to see what’s planned.

Come along to our mess nights which are held on the second Tuesday of every month at 20:00 at The St Leonards and St Ives Ex-Services Club, School Lane, St Ives, Dorset. BH24 2PF (view map and directions). These events always have a variety of activities from games and quizzes to guest speakers.

All serving and former members of the armed forces and other like-minded people are welcome – find out how you can join the RNA Ferndown and District.

Welfare Support

We have a Branch Welfare Officer who helps the Branch advise members and their dependants on personal matters, such as pensions, compensation, health and social security benefits and other subjects affecting their welfare.

The Welfare Officer can also help arrange assistance for our members and all others who serve in, or have served in our Naval Forces and their dependants who are in conditions of need, hardship or distress.

Our Welfare Officer can be contacted either by telephone on 07787 182162, or via email at rna.ferndownanddistrict@gmail.com. Please be assured that all conversations or correspondence on matters of welfare are strictly confidential.

Our Values

Whether we are catching up with friends at our regular social events, fundraising, advising on welfare and employment matters, or just providing an arm around the shoulder, our natural willingness to help others stems from the tradition and camaraderie that only Naval Service life can instil. Everything we do is inextricably linked to our core values:

• Unity –  Shared backgrounds and equality in rank. We share the same bonds, the same mind-set, and even the same language (Jackspeak!). We are all equal. We are the heart and soul of the RNA.
• Loyalty – To each other and our dependants. We will always support and look out for each other. Our loyalty is to all our shipmates, our local communities, the personnel and dependants of the Naval Service, along with other charities or organisations with naval connections.
• Patriotism – We are proud to serve and proud to represent our country and the Naval Service. Our pride in serving our country never leaves us. Nor do we forget those who have fallen for our country or who fight now. We are deeply honoured to represent them on both a national and international level.
• Comradeship – Friends in fun, fellowship and need. Your shipmates will always be here for you, whether it’s about a job, ideas for a fun day out or just an arm around the shoulder. We will never leave you or your dependants in despair.