DMWS are very pleased to announce that the RAF Benevolent Fund has awarded us another grant to support RAF beneficiaries (both Serving and ex-Serving) to:

1.          Live independently at home for longer

2.          Feel less isolated and lonely

3.          Have better mental wellbeing

DMWS provide person-centred, choice-based support to members of the Armed Forces Community (serving, reservists, veterans) and their family members/carers whilst they are on a healthcare pathway. Our fantastic welfare staff combine their expertise, qualifications, and compassionate nature to provide award-winning support to people with a range of non-clinical issues. These social, environmental, and economic challenges, otherwise known as the wider determinants of health, can have profound impact on health and wellbeing when not properly addressed. By taking time to address these challenges and put support in place, our service has a range of positive outcomes, such as reduced social isolation and loneliness, reduced rates of unnecessary readmission, and increased independence.

From May 2022 -April 2023, DMWS have supported:

  • – 690 Direct RAF Beneficiaries
  • – 600 Family members/carers
  • – 478 staff who were supporting RAF Beneficiaries

This support from RAFBF will allow us to continue being there for RAF beneficiaries who need support.

Paul Gaffney, CEO of Defence Medical Welfare Service, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded further funding from The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund. The funding will help support veterans with a wide number of issues and concerns and help us to both reduce social isolation and provide support with independent living. The Fund have been long-time supporters of DMWS, and their ongoing commitment and support will allow us to continue to improve the delivery of our service and reach more veterans in need of our help.”

Thank you to RAFBF for your ongoing support!

RAF Benevolent Fund: The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is the RAF’s leading welfare charity. We exist to support current and former members of the RAF, their partners and dependants, whenever they need us.

For more information visit:  www.rafbf.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        

Published: 25th July, 2023
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