DMWS awarded Hidden Voices funding to support veterans' families and children in London - DMWS
We are delighted to share that DMWS has been awarded a grant through the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust’s Hidden Voices Programme 2024/25 to launch a dedicated family support project for veterans’ spouses, partners and children in London.
Many families face the ripple effects of military life long after service ends – often without dedicated support. This funding will enable DMWS to pilot a Family Navigator Welfare Support role in London, designed to:
- Provide one-to-one emotional and practical support to children and partners of veterans
- Help families access SEND, mental health, housing and school-based services
- Connect isolated family members with local opportunities, groups, and charities
- Collaborate with military and non-military organisations to ensure no one falls through the gaps
- Advocate for children who are often overlooked when their parent is struggling with PTSD, injury, addiction, or poor mental health
DMWS will work with partners across London including schools, housing associations, NHS Trusts, SSAFA, Ripple Pond and others to reach underserved families and build long-term resilience.
Abby Dryden, CEO of DMWS, says:
“Behind every veteran is a family doing their best to hold things together, often without recognition or support. This project gives a voice to the spouses and children who are too often hidden from view. We’re incredibly grateful to the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust for enabling us to reach these families and stand beside them.”
Thank you to the Trust for recognising the importance of whole-family support. Together, we are building stronger futures for the Armed Forces community in London.
Notes to Editors:
About Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS)
Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) is an independent charity providing medical welfare to those who have, and continue to, operate on the frontline. We place trained professional welfare officers in locations throughout the UK and Cyprus to deliver much-needed additional support for those who are on the clinical pathway. DMWS is committed to providing the highest level of welfare support to those in need, promoting their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
Whether it is a new or pre-existing issue, our service is for anyone undergoing treatment for a health-related issue. By providing support in a range of settings, our staff are committed to promoting and preserving the health and wellbeing of those who have dedicated their lives to serving our communities. In addition, they are committed to enabling them to reach their full potential. This can speed up discharge from hospital, help patients recover more quickly, and reduce the likelihood of readmission or the need for onward referral.
DMWS has a long and proud history of supporting the military in times of need, offering expert help and advice to those affected by health-related issues. Through its comprehensive services and outstanding dedication, DMWS has become an integral part of the armed forces community, offering invaluable support to the armed forces community at their critical time of need.
More can be found out on our website at https://dmws.org.uk
Published: 21st October, 2025