SANDES: THE SOLDIER’S FRIEND
Founded in 1869 Sandes served the military community working with soldiers in centres located on military bases across the UK. These neutral, non-military spaces provided a home from home for soldiers and their families who experienced incredible pressures and stressful working lives.
Sandes
A HOME FROM HOME
The Centres were designed to be sanctuaries where soldiers were able to find a welcoming space on camp, free from rank and the pressure of military duties.
WELFARE AND FAMILY SUPPORT
Providing support for soldiers & new recruits who faced incredible pressures as they served their country.
CHRISTIAN WITNESS
Sandes was a Christian presence in military bases distributing Scriptures, offering pastoral support, Bible study, prayer meetings, children’s Bible Clubs etc.
History
OUR HISTORY
Sandes had been supporting soldiers since 1869. Find out more about the founder, Elise Sandes and read how out ministry developed over the years
NO PUBLIC FUNDS
Sandes was a charity and received no public funding. There were occasional grants from trusts for capital projects but Sandes depended on supporters to provide the core funding essential in keeping the work going.
STAFFING
A challenging job requiring special commitment and we are grateful to all staff and volunteers who faithfully run the organisation and manned Sandes Centres around the UK over many years until closure in 2023
STATEMENT OF FAITH
Sandes was a Christian mission. Read about the motivation and the values and principles that guided the work of Sandes with the UK military.
