Where do the Chelsea Pensioners live in London?
the Royal Hospital Chelsea
The Chelsea Pensioners are the iconic faces of the UK’s veteran community. They reside at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, their 326-year-old home founded by King Charles II in the heart of London.
What qualifies as a Chelsea Pensioner?
To be eligible for admission as a Chelsea Pensioner, a candidate must be a former non-commissioned officer or soldier of the British Army who is: Over 65 years or of State Pension age (whichever is the greater)
Where can I find Chelsea Pensioner records?
The National Archives
How to find Chelsea Pensioners’ service records. The original ‘Royal Hospital Chelsea Soldiers’ Service Documents’ (WO97) for 1760–1913 are held at The National Archives (TNA) in Kew.
Why do Chelsea call Pensioners?
Chelsea FC is called “The Pensioners” in reference to the image depicted in its original club crest of Chelsea pensioner. The pensioners were retired army veterans who lived in the nearby Royal Hospital Chelsea. In 1952, Ted Drake became the manager of Chelsea FC and began implementing modern changes.
Do Chelsea Pensioners pay rent?
Primarily you have to be a former soldier who is able to live independently and willing to surrender their British Army Pension. This last stipulation is because as soon as Chelsea Pensioners become residents they do not have to pay for accommodation or food.
Do Chelsea Pensioners have their own room?
On entering the Royal Hospital as a Chelsea Pensioner, you will receive a warm welcome from fellow veterans and staff. Accommodation is provided in the newly refurbished Long Wards, where you will have your own bedroom with en suite facilities and study area.
Do Chelsea Pensioners get pocket money?
Financial security. Pensioners qualify for a free bus pass and are able to explore London at their leisure. All that’s required is a bit of pocket money to spend on the way.
How much does it cost to be a Chelsea Pensioner?
How much it costs you depends on how much you are paid, but it will be between 5.5% and 12.5% of your pay. Your rate will depend on which pay band you fall into. The real cost to you will be less because you do not pay tax on the amount you pay into your pension.
Are there female Chelsea Pensioners?
Meet two Chelsea Pensioners who challenged stereotypes To mark International Women’s Day, we celebrate two female Chelsea Pensioners who challenged stereotypes in the Army and beyond. Charmaine and Pamela were both born in 1932, brought up in female households and joined the Army as teenagers.
Can Chelsea Pensioners be married?
They must be over 65 years of age, be able to live independently on the Long Wards on arrival at the Royal Hospital Chelsea and be free of any financial obligation to support a spouse or family.
Do Chelsea Pensioners wear uniform all the time?
The blue uniform is also worn at breakfast and lunch in the Great Hall. Most Chelsea Pensioners wear this throughout the day in and around the Royal Hospital, but Pensioners are permitted to wear their civilian clothes whenever they wish to dress down (usually in the evenings).
Do Chelsea Pensioners keep their State Pension?
You get to keep your State Pension and any other assets you may own. You just need enough money to get out and about, so you can enjoy all that London has to offer.
Are there any black Chelsea Pensioners?
Thomas Wells’ application to become an in-pensioner of the Royal Hospital Chelsea was successful, and he was provided with a berth in Ward 14. As a Chelsea Pensioner he wore the famous scarlet coat and black tricorne hat on ceremonial occasions, and received the same recognition and respect given to his White peers.
How do I find relatives military records?
If you’re the next of kin of a Veteran who has passed away
- Mail or fax a Request Pertaining to Military Records (Standard Form SF 180) to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC).
- Write a letter to the NPRC.
- Visit the NPRC in person.
- Contact your state or county Veterans agency.
- Hire an independent researcher.
Can you look up someone’s service record?
You can find veterans’ military service records from World War I to the present from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC). The NPRC houses many types of records, including Official Military Personnel Files (OMPF).