Dame Joanna Lumley will help launch the Royal British Legion’s 2026 Poppy Appeal in London today, as the charity shines a light on the sacrifices made by the families of those who serve.
The appeal, which began in 1921, aims to raise more than £50 million to support serving personnel, veterans and their families throughout their lives. This year’s campaign focuses on families, recognising the unique burdens and challenges they bear behind the scenes.
Joanna Lumley’s army roots
Dame Joanna, a long-standing supporter of the Royal British Legion, grew up in an Army family — her father served as a Major in the 6th Gurkha Rifles. She said the family theme feels particularly meaningful to her.
“I’m extremely proud to be supporting this year’s Poppy Appeal, and this year’s family theme feels particularly meaningful to me,” she said. “Having grown up in an Army family, travelling with my father’s postings, I’ve seen first-hand how much military service shapes family life.”
“When someone serves, their loved ones share in the uncertainty, the time apart and the sacrifices that come with it. I’d encourage everyone to get behind the Royal British Legion this year and show their support.”
“Wearing a poppy is such a simple thing to do, but it means an enormous amount to those who serve, to veterans and, of course, to their families.”
Where the money goes
The appeal raises over £50 million each year, funding support for serving personnel, veterans and their families — from welfare and recovery to employment, housing and community services. Poppies will be on sale across the country in the run-up to Remembrance Sunday on 8 November.
London will again host some of the largest remembrance events in the country, including the National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph in Whitehall on Remembrance Sunday and the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall on the Saturday before.
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