ABF The Soldiers’ Charity have generously awarded Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) £200,000 to help boost the support available throughout the UK.

We know that Army personnel and their families can face considerable disruption and uncertainty due to lengthy deployments. In addition, whilst many successfully transition into civilian life, we know there can be issues and challenges including mental health, financial issues, substance misuse, loneliness, or family issues. Dedicated welfare support has a life-changing impact for these individuals and their families.

With the funding, DMWS will continue to help 1430 Army beneficiaries in the next year to:

Feel less lonely and socially isolated – we know that people from a military background can find it hard to acknowledge feelings of loneliness or isolation. Our Welfare Teams take time to build connections so these feelings can be shared and solutions put in place.

Have better mental health – we provide support with a range of issues including stress and anxiety, relationship problems, alcohol and substance misuse, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, dementia, and more.

Be independent for as long as possible – we provide practical support which can hinder independence; this includes securing eligible benefits, funding for mobility aids and housing, alternative accommodation and respite places where needed

ABF have been a significant supporter of DMWS’s National Framework, our ambitious project to build a comprehensive network of Armed Forces Welfare Services across the UK. DMWS look forward to building on the success of the project so far and reaching more people who need us. With ABF’s continued support, we will:

  • Continue to build a sustainable network of welfare projects to cover as many locations as possible
  • Develop projects in areas of need for Army beneficiaries
  • Respond to changing needs including increasing mental health issues, social isolation, and pressures relating to the cost-of-living
  • Provide further support for emerging needs such as families with SEND needs, transitioning from Service, and gaps in provision for Commonwealth soldiers.

We extend our sincerest thanks to ABF The Soldiers’ Charity for their continued support.

For more information on ABF The Soldiers’ Charity visit  https://soldierscharity.org/

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       

Twitter @theDMWS 

Facebook @DefenceMedicalWelfareService

Instagram @thedmws

LinkedIn Defence Medical Welfare Service

Published: 7th July, 2023
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