New programme to mitigate the impact of separation on Forces families
Introducing the Armed Forces Covenant Fund: Apart Not Alone: Support for Serving Families programme; the second new programme we’re launching under our three-year Covenant Fund Framework.
Applications are now open for grants between £5,000 and £15,000 towards projects that will help to mitigate the impact of long or frequent involuntary separation for families, spouses, and serving personnel, including Reservists and their families.
What is the Apart Not Alone programme all about?
We’ve designed this programme to help Armed Forces families facing long or frequent involuntary separation, which can have significant impact on different aspects of family life including emotional wellbeing, mental health, social connections, and overall family dynamics.
In our Covenant Consultation last year, you told us that ‘Reducing stress and challenges for Armed Forces families’ was a key issue for us to focus on. Our consultation findings are available to read on our website.
The Apart, Not Alone programme will address this issue head-on by asking projects to meet one or more of the following programme outcomes:
Reduced impact of separation, loneliness and isolation for Serving families.
- Improved mental health and wellbeing for serving families.
- Enhanced access to support and activities that improve quality of life for serving families.
- Improved understanding of effective models of support for serving families.
- Supporting the reintegration of Service personnel back into their family homes and units after separation through developing and piloting new approaches.
Who can apply?
This new programme is open to registered charities, Community interest Companies (CIC) with substantial recent experience of supporting Armed Forces communities, and Armed Forces units or bases.
A full list of eligibility guidance is available on our programme page at the link below.
What type of projects are we looking to support?
We are looking for projects that can significantly benefit Armed Forces families impacted by frequent or long periods of involuntary separation. You’ll need to show us that your project will address current and immediate needs you’ve identified within the community and how you’ve identified any gaps in support or provision.
The application deadline is 12pm on 25 September 2024. You will receive a decision before end of December 2024.
Find out more
You can find full details of the programme, eligibility and how to apply on our dedicated programme page.
We’ll be launching more Covenant Fund programmes in the coming weeks – keep an eye on our website and social channels for more information…