Greater London RFCA

The Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association for Greater London (GL RFCA) is the focal point of activity and administration for reserves and cadets of all three Services in London. We came into existence in 1908 at the same time as the Territorial Army, as did 12 other autonomous Reserve Forces and Cadets Associations (RFCAs) spread throughout the United Kingdom. We were established by statute and are not part of the military chain of command but are required to give advice and assistance to the Defence Council and the three Services on Reserve and Cadet matters.

The Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Greater London plays a leading role in strengthening the environment for reservists and cadets across London.

For over 100 years we have supported and championed London’s reserve forces and cadets – Navy, Army and Air Force – by raising awareness and developing relationships with communities, employers and veterans. We also manage and maintain the extensive reserve and cadet estate throughout London.

This helps the combat-readiness of the reserves, enhancing the operational capability of the Armed Forces as a whole. For our cadets, we produce a safe and modern infrastructure and assist with the recruitment, administration and establishment of new units.

We do this by managing and future-proofing the 170+ buildings and facilities across the capital. We engage with local authorities, organisations and companies of all sizes, in every business sector, to advocate on behalf of the wider Armed Forces family and support London’s cadet and youth organisations, helping opportunity and education. 

What does GL RFCA stand for?

Greater London Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association. There are 12 other RFCA’s across the UK.

How long has GL RFCA been going?

We were formed in 1908 as the Territorial Army Volunteer Reserve Association, at the same time as the Territorial Army was formed. Nowadays, we have more of a tri-service and cadet focus.

Where is GL RFCA?

We are based out of Fulham House, just off Putney Bridge in Fulham. We also have four Army cadet sectors across Greater London, where some of our staff are also based.

Who and what do you look after?

• We provide safe training facilities and buildings that are fit for the ever-changing requirements against the set military output of units.

• We are responsible for the administration and logistic support of the Army Cadet Force.

• We work with the Navy, Army and RAF to engage with London businesses, charities and other government departments, do civic and community engagement and help with recruiting support for the reserves of all three services.

• We actively engage with London businesses to encourage them to support the armed forces community through signing the Armed Forces Covenant and joining the Employer Recognition Scheme.

• We strive to build awareness and positive attitudes towards the armed forces.

• We hire out the volunteer reserve and cadet estate to generate additional funds to support our role and help maintain the estate. This is called Alternative Venues London (click here to find out more)

• We also work with the police, local authorities, educational establishments and cadet forces, to help young people across London.

Some 190 members of the Association are experienced professional people interested in defence and are drawn from the Navy, Marines, Army, Air Force and Cadets as well as London boroughs, universities and employers.

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