Community Mapping

Working directly with veterans, serving personnel, families and organisations allowed us to build a clearer picture of what was already working well and where opportunities for improvement existed. The picture below shows the process we followed:

What We Learnt

While participants recognised examples of excellent support, they also described a system that could sometimes feel fragmented and difficult to navigate. Four key themes emerged from the research:

Visibility

People told us that support often exists but can be difficult to find. There was a strong desire for:

• Better signposting
• Greater community presence
• More face-to-face engagement
• Simpler pathways into support services

Participants frequently described the need for a trusted “one-stop-shop” approach where people could access information and support more easily.

Education

Many participants felt that improving awareness and understanding was more important than creating new services. Opportunities were identified to:

• Increase understanding of military culture.
• Improve awareness of available support.
• Support organisations to work together more effectively.
• Create opportunities for learning and collaboration.

Social Action

Veterans consistently spoke about wanting to contribute to their communities rather than simply receive support. Participants highlighted the value of:

• Volunteering
• Community projects
• Sharing skills and experience
• Creating meaningful opportunities to give back

The message was clear: military communities bring significant strengths, skills and experience that can positively contribute to local communities.

Reframing Movement

Conversations about physical activity centred less on sport and more on wellbeing. Participants talked about:

• Walking
• Outdoor spaces
• Family activities
• Nature and green spaces
• Physical activity for health and wellbeing

This highlighted an opportunity to reframe movement as a way to improve wellbeing, connection and quality of life