Select Page

THE FRIEND OF SOLDIERS SINCE 1869

PROVIDING FRIENSHIP AND PASTORAL SUPPORT

A CHRISTIAN MISSION EMBEDDED WITHIN THE MILITARY COMMUNITY

SANDES: THE SOLDIER’S FRIEND

Unfortunately, after over 150 years, Sandes has had to cease it service to HM Forces. This site is currently for information only, and will soon be updated

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.

But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?
- Romans 10:14 (NLT)

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.