07/09/2026
"There was a point when I didn't want to live."
In a powerful and deeply personal interview with Richard Hatch from BFBS Radio, Army veteran Oli Aspinall shares his journey from frontline service in Afghanistan to recovery, resilience, and purpose.
After 24 years in the Royal Engineers, including multiple operational tours supporting Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Counter-IED operations, Oli faced significant mental health challenges linked not only to his military experiences but also to a difficult childhood. At his lowest point, he felt there was no hope and no future.
Today, thanks in part to support from The Felix Fund's Dashboard Programme, he is in a very different place.
The Dashboard Programme helps members of the EOD and Search community recognise the warning signs of declining mental wellbeing, understand what is happening "under the bonnet", and develop practical tools to build resilience and recovery.
Now, Oli is taking on the BFBS Dino Dash Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in support of the BFBS Big Salute, proudly representing The Felix Fund and helping raise awareness of the support available to those who serve and have served within the EOD and Search family.
His story is a powerful reminder that asking for help is not weakness, and that recovery is possible.
🎙️Listen to Oli's interview with BFBS Radio and hear his inspiring story in full.
https://www.bfbs.com/radio/catchup/uk-afternoons?episode=2026-09-01-93098-1788264000-p0100
The interview is at 1:06.
If you work within the EOD and Search community and need support, or know someone who does, The Felix Fund is here to help.
Join us for fresh music, great chat, the latest forces stories, fantastic guests and more!