Sponsored by SSAFA
https:// https://www.ssafa.org.uk/about-us
https://www.ssafa.org.uk/support-us
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04 Feb 25. Sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT UK is delighted to reaffirm its commitment to the Visually Impaired Veterans Ski Club (VIVSC) by sponsoring another incredible skiing experience for visually impaired veterans in Canazei, Italy. This year, HENSOLDT UK donated £2,000 to the VIVSC, continuing its long-standing commitment to the armed forces community. The funding helps make the annual trip possible, allowing veterans to participate in a unique experience combining challenge, achievement, and camaraderie. The trip, which has been running for over 45 years, gives blind and visually impaired veterans the opportunity to ski with the guidance of experienced ex-military volunteer guides. Over the course of the week, participants push their limits, build confidence, and develop a deep trust with their guides and fellow veterans.
Marc Condon, Head of Internationalisation at HENSOLDT Optronics, participated again this year as a guide. As a British Army veteran himself, he was warmly welcomed back and immediately got involved. Reflecting on his time on the slopes, Marc said, “The level of trust between the veterans and their guides is incredible. Watching them conquer the slopes with such determination was truly inspiring. One of my most memorable moments was assisting the team working with a veteran using a sit ski. Seeing his resilience and progress firsthand was a reminder of just how impactful this trip is. Beyond the physical challenge, it has a huge positive psychological impact on our veterans and the entire support team. It prepares and recharges their mental battery and the ‘I can do this’ mindset that will sustain them over the coming year.”
A guide’s role extends far beyond skiing. From meeting at Heathrow Airport, they manage everything – equipment checks, logistics, and ensuring veterans are prepared for the slopes. Once skiing, they navigate busy areas, provide continuous verbal feedback, and ensure safety at every step. It’s physically and mentally demanding, but the trust between guides and veterans is absolute.
Veterans participating in the trip face significant challenges, from adapting to a new environment to overcoming the physical demands of skiing. Many described the experience as both exhausting and exhilarating, with some pushing their limits beyond what they thought possible.
Arthur Bloomfield of the VIVSC expressed his gratitude, stating, “HENSOLDT UK’s continued support has made a real difference to the club. The funding allows us to provide these veterans with an experience that is not only enjoyable but also life-changing. Having Marc on board as a guide has been fantastic, and we hope to see him again next year.”
Managing Director of HENSOLDT UK, Adrian Pilbeam, added, “This ski trip is an incredible example of teamwork, trust, and perseverance. The impact on visually impaired veterans is truly inspiring, and we are honoured to support such a meaningful initiative. Our ongoing support for this initiative reflects our wider commitment to the armed forces community, which is recognised by our Gold Employer status under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.”
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SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has been providing lifelong support to our Forces and their families since 1885. In 2020, our teams of volunteers and employees helped more than 79,000 people in need, the currently serving (both regulars and reserves), veterans from the Second World War and those who have served in more recent conflicts, as well as their families. SSAFA understands that behind every uniform is a person. And we are here for that person – any time they need us, in any way they need us, for as long as they need us.
https://www.ssafa.org.uk/about-us
https://www.ssafa.org.uk/support-us
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