An SAS veteran has said his “fight is with the Government” as he called for better support for Britain’s service personnel during this year’s Remembrance Sunday commemorations.
Speaking to GB News, Matthew Hellyer – founder of the veterans’ charity Pilgrim Bandits – accused ministers of mishandling millions in funding meant to support former soldiers.
SAS Veteran Matthew Hellyer
🎖️ “Money isn’t being spent correctly”
Hellyer told hosts Camilla Tominey and Michael Portillo that Government money given to military charities often fails to reach those most in need.
“The Government gives a huge amount of money to charities, but that money isn’t being spent correctly in my opinion,” he said.
“It needs to be disseminated down to the individuals in need and not given to events or stuff like that.”
He added that veterans sleeping rough and struggling with trauma should be prioritised over ceremonial spending.
“Once we’ve taken every veteran off the street and made sure every veteran gets the care he deserves, then we can look at events. The money needs to be spent properly.”
🕯️ Service and sacrifice
As the King led the national service of remembrance at the Cenotaph, Hellyer reflected on the sacrifices made by veterans – including his own.
“Being in the SAS had a huge impact. I loved every minute, but it comes with sacrifice,” he said. “I lost my family over this. One of my boys died two years ago, and I didn’t give him the time he deserved because I was dedicated to serving my country.”
He described the toll of military life, saying:
“The divorce rate is huge and the children suffer, but that’s because we’re dedicated to this country. People need to see that dedication and respect it.”
🪖 “My fight is with the Government now”
Hellyer said veterans today face prosecution, persecution, and neglect, despite dedicating their lives to protecting Britain.
“We get given the Government’s biggest problems to solve — and now we’re being persecuted for it,” he said.
“So now my fight isn’t with the enemy, my fight is with the Government.”
He revealed plans to form a new veterans’ alliance to unite support groups and educate the public about military service, adding:
“We want the support of the Government, and we want the support of the public.”
'My fight is not with the enemy, it is with the government at the moment.'
SAS veteran Matthew Hellyer explains why his charity, Pilgrim Bandits, are campaigning to get 'support off of the Government' for veterans. pic.twitter.com/CTNqVO5Eho
Joe Connor is a UK-based reporter specialising in politics, public policy, and national affairs. He has previously contributed to publications including The London Economic (JOE Media Group) and Spotted News.
At The Daily Britain, he covers Westminster politics, elections, and breaking political developments, alongside in-depth analysis of policy decisions and their real-world impact.
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