University of Stirling project will help shape Armed Forces welfare and wellbeing

Dr Steve Rolfe, Senior Lecturer in Social Policy at the University of Stirling, said: “The Armed Forces community is becoming more diverse and the needs of those who require support are changing over time. Understanding the ways in which SSAFA’s casework service can address these needs and enhance quality of life for different members of the Armed Forces community is vital to ensuring that support is delivered efficiently and effectively. This research will provide evidence of impact which should be of value across the Armed Forces charity sector and beyond.” 

Julie McCarthy, Director of Welfare Operations at SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, said: “The military charity sector, supported by colleagues across numerous civilian grant-making organisations, distributes millions of pounds in financial support to the Armed Forces community every year.  SSAFA are very proud to play a pivotal role in that and this grant from FiMT will enable us to show the true impact of that collaborative working on both individuals but also for society as a whole.” 

Michelle Alston, Chief Executive of Forces in Mind Trust, said: “Whilst most of the Armed Forces community transition successfully to civilian, there are some who need specific support and understanding often provided through casework. This project is an opportunity to better understand the changing nature and needs of the Armed Forces community. It will enable services to be tailored to provide the most impact and encourage a system-wide approach to tackling future needs.”