Nepal suffers from earthquakes and landslides. There is very little industry and there are few roads. It is a harsh environment in which to live, and the work of the Gurkha Welfare Trust is crucial. The Trust operates 21 welfare centres throughout Nepal and one in India. These are manned by retired Gurkhas who investigate cases of hardship and distress and recommend appropriate aid.

Approximately £20 per month, enough to buy basic food, is paid to about 10,600 needy Gurkha ex-servicemen and widows who do not receive a military pension (15 years' military service is required to earn such a pension). Medical treatment is also provided for them and their dependants. In addition, hardship grants are awarded to alleviate destitution following fire, flood and other natural disasters. The Trust also helps to fund the education of some 1,500 children each year.