To help veterans in custody maximise employability and prepare for a positive, independent life after release, the ABF has partnered with the Prison Radio Association.
Prison can be an isolating and stressful environment, especially for veterans managing trauma, mental health conditions or uncertainty about life after release. Ensuring they can access trusted support is vital for their wellbeing and long‑term stability.
To help meet this need, the ABF has awarded a £10,000 grant to the Prison Radio Association for its Supporting Veterans Behind Bars project. The charity runs National Prison Radio, a 24‑hour station that is broadcast directly into prison cells across England and Wales, providing information, positive role models and pathways to services.
There are more than 2,800 veterans currently in custody. Government research shows that many experience mental health conditions including PTSD, depression and substance‑related disorders, yet fewer than half report accessing available support. Veterans also describe difficulties coping with the prison environment, feeling isolated, and worrying about resettlement. The Prison Radio Association’s own findings show similar patterns, and also demonstrate how effective targeted radio content can be in reaching veterans who might not otherwise seek help.
Our funding will support a new series of veteran‑focused radio features and workshops. The broadcasts will include conversations with expert organisations and interviews with veterans who have rebuilt their lives after release. In‑prison workshops will help participants develop confidence and produce spoken‑word pieces reflecting their own experiences. Together, these activities aim to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and help veterans access the services available to them.
Andrew Wilkie, Chief Executive Officer at the Prison Radio Association, said:
“People who serve in our Armed Forces place themselves in challenging situations on behalf of our country. The stresses involved can have all sorts of unpredictable impacts, and we know there’s a disproportion of veterans in prison. National Prison Radio is a trusted voice that can reach those people directly. Our presenters include people who have been down that same path and can share advice about how to rebuild following imprisonment, where to seek help and what support is available. We’re grateful to the Army Benevolent Fund for helping us to reach our veterans in prison.”
Brigadier (Ret’d) Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer at the Army Benevolent Fund, added:
“Veterans in custody can find it difficult to ask for help, and many are unsure where to turn. The Prison Radio Association reaches people directly and provides support in a way that feels safe and trusted. Our funding will help ensure that veterans in prison, and those preparing for release, can access the guidance and encouragement they need to move towards a more positive future.” To find out more about the Prison Radio Association, visit their website here.