Why the Defence Medical Welfare Service is so important even after active service

When someone serves in the Armed Forces, their welfare – and that of their family – extends far beyond their time in uniform, especially during illness, recovery, or crisis. The Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) is a vital part of that ethos – bridging the gap between clinical care and the human support service personnel, veterans, and their families so often need.

I learned this first-hand when my dad was admitted to hospital during the COVID lockdown. He was three hours from home and stayed for five long days. Paralysed and unable to use his phone, he had no way of calling us. And although the ward staff were kind, they were incredibly busy. We didn’t want to disturb them, but it was agonising not knowing how he was doing or how we could help.

Then DMWS stepped in. Because I’m a Royal Navy veteran, they looked at my dad as my dependant and offered support. A welfare officer visited him a couple of times, helped him make phone calls home, and even attended his discharge appointment. They took photos and a short video to show us everything we needed to know for his care at home. It was such a relief to finally have that connection and clarity.

That experience opened my eyes to what Defence Medical Welfare really means – above the forms or procedures, it’s about people. It’s about compassion, communication, and care at times when families feel helpless and alone.

Not long after, I saw the importance of DMWS again in a completely different situation. I was visiting a loved one in hospital, and as I was leaving, I noticed a Royal Marines veteran sitting at the entrance looking distressed. He’d been discharged but had nowhere to go – no phone, no money, no family or friends, and no way to get home. It was heartbreaking.

I called DMWS and a local welfare officer immediately stepped in. They attended the hospital, spoke with him, and made sure he got home safely. That swift, practical, and compassionate response made all the difference to someone who could easily have been overlooked.

Both experiences reminded me that the work DMWS does goes far beyond what most people ever see. They’re there in the background, supporting the Armed Forces community in moments of real vulnerability. They bring dignity, understanding, and a human touch when it’s needed most.

Last weekend BBK sponsored the DMWS Wonderland Afternoon Tea fundraiser, and I took the opportunity to attend and share the experience with my parents and some friends. And what an incredible time we had. As soon as we stepped into the looking glass, we were met with costumes and decorations straight from a storybook. The hospitality was incredible, and it was an afternoon full of magic, warmth and wonder.

DMWS represents something truly special – the continuation of the military family’s care, long after the uniform is hung up – and we hope the Wonderland event has raised awareness and funds to ensure its work continues.