The Blue Lamp Foundation

When was it established?

The Blue Lamp Foundation was established in October 2010 by PC David Rathband after he was shot and blinded by gunman Raoul Moat in Northumbria. He realised there was a need to provide financial aid when members of the emergency services are injured in the line of duty and incurred unexpected costs such as hospital parking, childcare, medical aids, transport to and from appointments and general out of pocket expenses.

PC David Rathband died in 2012 but the Foundation continues in his memory. Its role and remit has developed since then and it now supports members of the emergency services who have mental or physical injuries as a result of being injured whilst on duty. The Foundation can also pay for rehabilitation at The Police Treatment Centres for nonmembers.

Who is it for?

PC David Rathband’s Blue Lamp Foundation supports any serving member of the Police, Fire and Ambulance service who has been injured whilst on duty. For details of the grants available, please visit the Foundation’s website.

The Blue Lamp Foundation is funded entirely by private donations and fundraising activities. For details of how you can get involved again please visit the Foundation’s website.

How can I apply?

To be eligble to receive a grant from PC David Rathband’s Blue Lamp Foundation, you must be employed by a United Kingdom Police Force, Fire or Ambulance Service. You do not need to pay into the Blue Lamp Foundation to receive a grant.

The Blue Lamp Foundation also has started a closed LinkedIn group and Facebook Page for members of the Emergency Services called The Blues and Twos. Search for The Blues and Twos and send a member request to join the group. For further information or to apply for a grant: