The non-religious in the armed forces
Defence Humanists exists to support non-religious serving or retired regular and reserve military personnel, their families, and Ministry of Defence civil servants. It organises events and community activities for its members, and leads Humanists UK’s participation in Remembrance events and similar activities around the UK.
Who we are
Defence Humanists is a section of Humanists UK, run by a committee of volunteers.
Its honorary President is Dr Roger Hutton, who is also a patron of Humanists UK, and its patrons are Professor AC Grayling, Dan Snow, and Professor Francesca Stavrakopoulou.
‘It’s immensely important that non-religious and humanist serving personnel and veterans have access to support from people with a similar outlook. Service life presents many challenges, and it’s good knowing that there are people out there who understand, including non-religious chaplaincy. These things mean a great deal to non-religious people working in Defence, who feel part of a positive, growing community.’
Dr Roger Hutton, President of Defence Humanists
What we aim to do
- Raise awareness of humanist and non-religious perspectives in the Defence community.
- Continue supporting the implementation of non-religious pastoral support for the UK armed forces.
- Support the annual non-religious Remembrance events, which have become well established over the years.
- Support the MOD’s internal network, Humanists and Non-religious in Defence (HAND).
- Reach out to veterans and Service families in need of non-religious services such as celebrancy.
Join Defence Humanists
You can join Defence Humanists by joining Humanists UK. As a member you also get all the benefits of Humanists UK membership: voting rights at the AGM, a welcome pack and membership card, a regular newsletter, and access to the members’ section of our website, while supporting our campaigns for a fairer society. All for £5 a month.
Get in touch
For more information, contact Paul Nelson, Secretary of Defence Humanists. We’re always keen to hear from volunteers, including anyone who’d like to join the Defence Humanists committee.
More ways to connect
Sections and networks of Humanists UK.