Support for Relocated Service Families – reopen for new applications!
Moving to a completely new place, surrounded by unfamiliar faces, can feel surreal. You’re pushed out of your comfort zone, knowing that if you don’t reach out, the feeling of loneliness can quickly grow. But not everyone has the confidence to walk into a coffee morning or event on their own for the first time.
“Having a first point of contact, a friendly face, a supportive presence makes such a difference. Someone who can help you find your way, learn about your new area and most importantly, open the door to connections and friendships.
That kind of support isn’t just help, it’s essential for finding your way and keeping your momentum in this military way of life” – Jenna, Army spouse.
Supporting you, on the move
Today, we are reopening the Serving Families: On the Move programme for new applications. This year, you can apply for a grant of £5,000 to £50,000 for a 12 month project which will achieve one or more of the following outcomes:
- Families in a new posting have more accessible information to support them to settle into a new and unfamiliar location.
- Newly arrived families report improved wellbeing by being introduced to and connected with activities provided in their new area.
- Fewer newly arrived and relocated service families report feeling isolated or lonely and more service families say they have effective support networks.
- Families feel more able to navigate the challenges of relocation, because their relationships are stronger.
Why are we running this programme?
Frequent moves can disrupt social connections and support systems, often leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Over time, this can negatively impact mental health and family relationships.
One of our key priorities when launching the Armed Forces Covenant Framework was to reduce stress and challenges for families. To support this aim, we introduced the Serving Families: On the Move programme.
To date, under the Armed Forces Covenant, we have awarded a total of over £1.3m to 14 projects aimed at improving the quality of life for service families impacted by relocation and as a direct result of service life.
This programme aims to support newly relocated service families, encouraging connection, and strengthening family relationships, ensuring armed forces communities are not left at a disadvantage.
We are looking to support projects that use preventative or early intervention approaches to support families who have recently moved. These projects should focus on helping families settle into their new communities and build lasting, positive connections.
“It’s a very lonely life, and the sacrifices that we go through as a family always seem so significant yet not recognised.” – RAF spouse
Who can apply?
We are inviting applications from registered charities, armed forces units and bases, Community Interest Companies (CICs), and local authorities.
Full eligibility details are available in our programme guidance document.
Dates to remember
There will be two deadlines for applications this year. If you apply by 12pm 23 July 2025, you’ll receive a decision by end September 2025. But don’t worry if you’re not ready to apply, our second-round closes 17 December 2025, and you’ll receive a decision by end February 2026.
Find out more
Head to our Serving Families: On the Move dedicated programme page for full details about this family focused programme, including how to apply.
You can also read about the previous projects we’ve supported here.