The Problem
Losing Identity - Losing Connection
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16,000 individuals leave the UK Armed Forces annually
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Many struggle with mental health issues such as depression, PTSD, and suicidality.
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The transition is made worse by loss of identity and social connection.
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Existing programmes tend to ignore the social isolation and lack of social support affecting service-leavers' health.
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Successful transition requires a focus on identity and social support
The Benefits of Social Group Memberships for Health
Research shows that positive group memberships enhance physical health, longevity, mental health, and general well-being.
Especially during life transitions, such as leaving the military or elite sports, being part of more groups provides valuable resources we can rely on in times of stress and boosts our sense of identity and belonging.
More information on the evidence behind VCP can be found here.
Supporting Veterans
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The Veteran Connection Programme ​
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What we do!
From Veterans for Veterans
In VCP, the experience of veterans is front and centre. Not only have we co-developed VCP with veterans and veterans charities from the UK and Australia, it is also group-based and co-delivered by a trained veteran.VCP is a free offer for veterans and rather than competing with existing transition support programmes, VCP is designed to complement existing support for service-leavers.
Promising Results​
Our results so far show improvements among veterans in thriving, group gain, confidence in managing social transition, and adjustment to civilian life.
VCP is especially useful in fostering a sense of purpose and reducing loneliness among veterans.
What Our participants say
“You’d see the look in their eye of like ‘I’m not by myself anymore… I’m not abnormal. This is okay… They’re not alone.’”
