Soldiers, veterans, and their families will continue to receive practical and emotional support during some of life’s most challenging circumstances, thanks to our grant of £214,229 to the Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS).
Members of the Armed Forces community can face a wide range of challenges during service and beyond, including poor health, social isolation, housing difficulties, financial hardship, and mental health concerns. For some, navigating healthcare and support systems can feel overwhelming, particularly during periods of illness, recovery, or transition to civilian life.
To help address these challenges, the Army Benevolent Fund is supporting DMWS’s National Framework, a network of welfare services delivered across the UK alongside a national helpline service. Together, these services provide confidential, independent, and compassionate support to Armed Forces personnel, veterans, and their families.
DMWS Welfare Officers work closely with those in need of support, to understand the wider challenges affecting their health and wellbeing. By taking a person-centred approach, they help individuals access the right support, coordinate referrals, and overcome barriers that could otherwise delay recovery or lead to more serious issues.
Our funding will contribute towards a network of 22 welfare services operating in areas of greatest need, as well as the charity’s national helpline service, which provides support to those unable to access face-to-face services. Through early intervention, DMWS helps prevent problems from escalating into crisis, enabling soldiers, veterans, and their families to improve their wellbeing, maintain independence, and access long-term support.
The service supports people experiencing a wide range of interconnected challenges, including chronic illness, mental health difficulties, housing issues, unemployment, substance abuse, and family pressures. By working collaboratively with healthcare providers, charities, and statutory organisations, DMWS helps ensure beneficiaries receive joined-up support tailored to their individual circumstances.
Abby Dryden, Chief Executive at DMWS, said:
“The funding provided by the Army Benevolent Fund has a profound impact, enabling DMWS to deliver direct welfare support to individuals and families facing some of the most difficult and challenging periods in their lives. This investment is truly transformative, helping to improve wellbeing, resilience and long-term outcomes. Importantly, our ability to maximise the value of this funding through match funding arrangements and collaborative delivery across multiple projects significantly extends our reach, ensuring that more people receive the support they need when they need it most.”
Brigadier (Ret’d) Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer at the Army Benevolent Fund, said:
“Health, wellbeing, and wider life challenges are often closely linked, and it can be difficult for people to know where to turn for help. DMWS provides invaluable support to soldiers, veterans, and their families by helping them navigate complex situations and access the services they need. We are proud to continue supporting a charity that makes such a significant difference to the Armed Forces community through early intervention and personalised welfare support.”