Parkdean Resorts has committed to expanding its support for the armed forces in 2025 by donating more than 200 holidays, valued at over £150,000, to members of the military community and their families.
In 2024, Parkdean Resorts donated 185 holidays across 21 of its holiday parks through partnerships with the Army Central Fund, the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.
The breaks were awarded in recognition of the beneficiaries' service, providing military personnel with much-needed respite and support for their recuperation.
Parkdean Resorts also holds the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, the highest honour a company can achieve for its commitment to veteran-friendly recruitment processes and development opportunities.
In addition, next year Parkdean Resorts will sponsor the Armed Forces Families Advocate(s) of the Year Award at the Celebrating Forces Families Awards. This ceremony honours the often-overlooked contributions and vital support provided by military families.
Steve Richards, CEO at Parkdean Resorts, said: “We have so much respect for armed forces families for the resilience they show and sacrifices they make, facing unique challenges and standing strong behind those who serve. Bringing families together and creating unforgettable memories is at the heart of everything we do, so we’re delighted to give back to armed forces families by providing them with the opportunity to spend good quality time together.
“In 2025, we will be donating £150,000 worth of free holidays to military families from all walks of life to help them create happy memories.”
Tania Carter, Head of Respite, Care and Advocacy at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “Military life, including regular relocation and deployment, can be demanding and take its toll on serving RAF personnel and their families, particularly for those with additional welfare needs.
“We are hugely grateful for the support from Parkdean Resorts, providing the opportunity for serving RAF families to spend some quality time away with each other and make lasting memories, recuperating from the day-to-day challenges of military life. Thanks to our collaboration, we were able to provide breaks for RAF families with chronic illnesses or disabilities, bereavements and other challenges. We look forward to continuing our collaboration, supporting more members of our RAF Family when they need it the most.”
Anne Carr, Head of Grants at the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity said: “At the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, we see firsthand the impact that time away together has on military families who are often facing immense challenges. Parkdean Resorts’ generous holiday donations give our beneficiaries the chance to relax, reconnect, and recharge, helping them feel valued and supported by the wider community. We are incredibly grateful for Parkdean’s ongoing commitment to our armed forces, and we’re excited to see even more Royal Navy and Royal Marines families benefit from this wonderful initiative in 2025.”
