The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation to ensure that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.
The covenant is intended to help members of the armed forces community have the same access to government and commercial services and products as any other citizen.
Support is provided in a number of areas including:
- Education and family well-being
- Having a home
- Starting a new career
- Access to healthcare
- Financial assistance
- Discounted services
You can find out more about the Armed Forces Covenant here.
Help and support beyond service
This support extends beyond service and applies to the families of veterans as well as personnel who are currently serving.
A useful starting point for understanding what support is available to service families are the service families’ federations:
Each of the federations has specific information for families about the process of transitioning from military to civilian life.
- If you have a family member leaving the Navy you can find specific information here.
- If you have a family member leaving the Army you can find specific information here.
- If you have a family member leaving the RAF you can find specific information here.
Challenges faced by military families
Military families face unique challenges such as:
- Extended and repeated periods of separation;
- Additional caring responsibilities this might place on the remaining spouse or partner;
- Anxiety surrounding an operational deployment.
There are specific initiatives under the Armed Forces Covenant to support family life in the armed forces and for veteran families.
