A TRIPLE amputee war veteran has partnered up with Runcorn’s cash converters HQ to carry on donating essential items to those in need across the North West.

Andy Reid MBE set up his ‘Standing Tall’ charity in March 2020 to support vulnerable families going through hardship during the coronavirus pandemic. They also offer free mental health support for NHS staff in the St Helens and Knowsley area.

For the launch of the partnership, they donated laptops to a network of schools across the north west for children who don’t have access to a computer while learning from home.

The ex- Corporal and Afghanistan war veteran said: “There are some really vulnerable people out there, and this pandemic has really added to their struggles.

“It is sad to think that there are children in this country who can’t access the internet at home, and so I know these laptops will be a vital lifeline for children in the north west who want to learn.”

The Standing Tall Foundation also helps with social issues such as: homelessness and debt management. The founder was blown up by an improvised Taliban explosive in Afghanistan back in October 2009 and has since devoted his life to supporting others.

Standing Tall Foundation Trustee, Daniel Hodges, 29 said: “Andy’s status within his community is seen as a bit of legend and a war hero. Having Andy as the main person for the foundation is so positive, he would never do anything that wasn’t benefitting someone else.

“The children are benefiting from these laptops 10-fold as everything is on-line these days and not everyone can afford them.”

Since the partnership, not only have many electricals and mental health support been provided but a homeless ex war veteran in Blackpool was gifted a new microwave, TV and tumble dryer after he secured accommodation.

Peter Hall, CEO at Cash converters said: “Backing causes like Andy’s is a really rewarding way of ensuring that we continue to support the vulnerable in our communities right now.

“Andy is the perfect example of someone who has faced adversity and come out on top, so it’s our absolute pleasure to be able to support others who have found themselves in tricky situations."

Cash converters have all their goods checked against police databases; they work closely with local police authorities to help combat crime.