News & Policy

UK serving and ex-Service personnel experiencing mental health problems such as Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, depression and anxiety disorders, and alcohol misuse need earlier identification and better support, according to a new review commissioned by the Forces in Mind Trust (FiMT) and conducted by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen).

New research published today has found that, despite the skills and experiences veterans offer, over a third of 50+ Service leavers reported experiencing ageism, anti-military bias or both, and 1 in 5 are working in non-permanent positions such as casual employment, some because they are unable to find sustainable long-term employment.

Forces in Mind Trust Chief Executive, Ray Lock, recognises the finalists of the 2020 Soldiering On Awards in light of the postponement of the ceremony due to COVID-19.

The Trust is seeking to recruit an experienced and flexible Communications Officer with strong traditional and digital communication skills, stakeholder management and Public Affairs expertise.  

Forces in Mind Trust (FiMT) has awarded £133,150 to the University of Chester to conduct research to examine how an advertising campaign can motivate ex-Service personnel to register with Primary Health Care practices.

Forces in Mind Trust (FiMT) has been shortlisted for the UK-wide Charity Governance Awards 2020. It is in the running for an ‘Improving Impact’ award, which comes with a £5,000 unrestricted grant. FiMT is one of 21 charities from across the country that complete the full shortlist.

Forces in Mind Trust (FiMT) has awarded £99,979 to Northumbria University to examine the prevalence of social isolation and loneliness among UK war widows.

Forces in Mind Trust (FiMT) has awarded £7,500 to X-Forces Enterprise to research and map business membership organisations and trade associations as part of a drive to improve employment opportunities for ex-Service personnel within small and medium sized businesses.

When my friend and former RAF colleague died last year in a flying accident, I put into practice something I’d heard Cariad Lloyd speak about on her ‘Griefcast’. Don’t add to the grieving family’s problems, Cariad advises, by asking them to identify their needs – the classic “if there’s anything I can do, please don’t hesitate to ask”. Think instead what you believe would be helpful, and offer it straight up, so that a simple yes/no response is all that’s needed.