The Gurkha Welfare Trust

The groundwork has began on some of the new Earthquake-Resilient homes that we will be building for our vulnerable veterans and widows this year. 🏠

Are you looking for a new challenge this year? Why not sign up for The AJ Bell Great North Run on 7 September and take on a personal challenge whilst doing something incredible for Gurkha veterans and their communities in Nepal. The AJ Bell Great North Run is the world’s biggest half marathon, with 60,000 runners taking on the route from Newcastle to South Shields each year. It’s famous for its inclusive atmosphere, unbeatable route-side entertainment and warm Geordie welcome. Click here to sign up: buff.ly/3VQwhMF

Honoring Tradition, Crafting Excellence Meet Viking Kunwor, a proud sixth-generation descendant of Captain Balbhadra, the legendary warrior who bravely defended Nalapani Fort during the Anglo-Gurkha War of 1814. Being connected to such an iconic figure—known as the Lion of Nepal—has been a tremendous honor for Viking and has ignited his lifelong passion for Kukri knives. Drawing inspiration from his Gorkhali heritage, Viking explored the art of khukri craftsmanship and the weapon's storied history in battles worldwide. His fascination with the khukris used in the World Wars and their regimental variations led him to establish Heritage Knives, a family-run business that blends Himalayan and Western knife-making techniques to create authentic Gurkha Kukris and premium kitchen knives. Since 2020, Heritage Knives has proudly supported GWT. During his recent trip to Nepal in January, Viking visited both of our Residential Homes and generously donated a set of chef knives for the kitchens. Read more about his incredible journey and contribution here: buff.ly/40qCOPC

"With each step into the hidden valleys of Khotang, we carry the gifts of medical care and unwavering support, lighting up lives with every visit." Birendra Kumar Sah, Mobile Health Practitioner

We are immensely grateful to Splash Projects who funded the production of this wonderful video, showcasing some of the highlights of Trailwalker 2024. Find out more: gwt.org.uk/news/splash-pr…

Taking care of our seniors! Our Baglung Area Welfare Centre organised a dental clinic alongside a social event for our pensioners. This allows them to address their dental needs while enjoying the company of friends.

The doko basket is an essential and iconic part of traditional Nepalese culture. Dokos are primarily used in Nepal’s hilly and mountainous regions as versatile carriers. Farmers and labourers rely on them to transport a variety of goods. They also play a pivotal part in Gurkha recruitment with the infamous ‘Doko Race’ where the aspiring recruits are tasked with ascending a gruelling course in the foothills of the Himalayas carrying a ‘Doko’ loaded with 25kg of sand. We're bringing this tradition closer to home with annual Doko races in Leeds and London! We also loan out Dokos to military personnel for fundraising events. Want to take on the challenge or find out more: buff.ly/4amc9bj

Known for his work with the Royal Gurkha Regiment and his contributions to the Gurkha Welfare Trust, Alun Richardson has created this stunning book ‘Khumbu’, a photographic journey through stunning landscapes, cultural moments, and the everyday lives of the Sherpa people. 70% of the profits of the sale of this book will be donated to GWT. “I was honoured to be the official photographer for the Royal Gurkha Regiment’s 2017 Everest expedition, a mission that culminated with 13 Gurkha soldiers summiting Everest. My experiences with them opened my eyes to the strength, humour, and kindness of the Gurkha soldiers and Sherpa people. On my return I began raising funds for the Gurkha Welfare Trust (GWT), knowing that my photography could help support the people of Nepal in a meaningful way.” Find out more: buff.ly/4fZ7zRm

Our rehabilitation team travel high into the hills to reach our elderly pensioners in their homes, working to improve their mobility and comfort.

The incredible Jim Morton has reached his ambitious target of raising £50,000 for The Gurkha Welfare Trust. Read more: gwt.org.uk/news/50000-for…

Our team in Bhojpur have provided a cleaner and safer new water-sealed toilet for Gurkha widow Basan Maya Rai. This essential facility will undoubtedly improve her quality of life and allow her to live with dignity.

From injured veteran to the world’s first double above-knee amputee to summit Mount Everest; GWT Ambassador Hari shares his inspiring journey from being born in a cowshed, going to school barefoot, growing up in civil war, passing the most difficult military selection, losing his legs in 2010, battling depression and discrimination, to standing atop the world’s largest peak in May 2023. Find out more: speakersfromtheedge.com/theatre-tours/…

In the embrace of a chilly winter morning, our residents find joy in gentle stretches by the bonfire's warm glow.

Our team regularly deliver essential medical services to our vulnerable pensioners. Unfortunately sometimes our elderly veterans and widows require more than simple medication. Our team in Syangja recently delivered an oxygen concentrator Gurkha widow Runisara Ale to help her to breath more easily.

Our beautiful charity calendar is now available at a discounted price. Featuring stunning imagery of our Gurkha veterans and widows each purchase helps support our work in Nepal, helping veterans and widows live with dignity. Order yours today and make a difference! shop.gwt.org.uk/shop/

Gurkha widow, Basant Devi Gurung is overjoyed with her newly renovated home! Her once dark and damp room has been completely transformed with plastered walls and floors, and safe electrical wiring. "I often stayed outside before," shares Basant Devi. "But now, thanks to GWT, my room is so comfortable and welcoming. I am incredibly grateful for this amazing change in my life." #HomeTransformation #GWT #EmpoweringCommunities #MakingADifference

As temperatures continue to drop in Pokhara, our veterans and widows are struggling to cope with the harsh winter weather. Our team have provided electric heaters to our most vulnerable pensioners, making a significant difference during this difficult time.

Happy New Year from everyone at GWT!