Live ChatArticle written by SSAFA Welfare Officer: Sophie Allport
Military life is a team effort, not just on the front lines but back at home too. When loved ones deploy, it’s the families who often carry the emotional and logistical load, making their own sacrifices. But just as sailors, soldiers and, in our case, aviators, have their comrades, military families have SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity and a whole network of support to lean on.
From Personal Support (PS) teams to the often-unsung heroes—Padres (military chaplains)—there’s a wealth of care and community to keep families feeling supported and connected. Whether it’s sharing a cup of tea with a neighbour or joining a support group with other families, there’s a lot of heart that goes into keeping the home fires burning.
For 140 years, SSAFA has been at the heart of military family life, ensuring that no one has to battle alone. A key part of supporting the wellbeing of our RAF serving persons and families is within the SSAFA’s Personal Support and Social Work Service (PS&SWS) and the work we do.
What really sets us apart is our ability to create a sense of community. We understand that it’s not just about practical support, but about offering emotional resilience, a listening ear, and a network of people who understand what it means to live through a deployment.
While deployment might physically separate families, there’s always a sense of togetherness within the military community. Whether it’s a chat with the PS team, reaching out to a PS&SWS Welfare Officer, or a community event put on by SSAFA, there are plenty of ways for families to stay connected, grounded, and supported during difficult times. Online platforms also provide a great outlet for families to share experiences and form friendships.
The Padres are also there to provide spiritual care and emotional support. They’re often the ones families turn to when they need someone to listen or offer guidance during the more challenging moments. Padres have a special way of bringing people together, regardless of faith or background, to foster a sense of unity and support. They offer a holistic approach to family support, making sure that everyone feels heard, supported, and part of a larger community. And you don’t need to be religious to get help from them!
Military life is tough, and deployments can be hard, but there’s also room for laughter, lightness, and camaraderie. SSAFA knows how important it is to maintain a sense of joy and fun in the midst of challenges. In fact, it’s these community-building moments that often make the biggest impact. Families may come for the practical advice, but they stay because they feel part of something bigger—a supportive, caring community that has their back no matter what.
You can also join in the fun by attending SSAFA’s events or hosting a fundraiser – such as a Big Brew Up – in your local community. Remember, supporting military families doesn’t always have to be a serious affair. Sometimes, it’s about bringing people together for a good time and a good cause.
Military families back at home are never alone, because when we come together – whether it’s over a cup of tea, a community event, or a heartfelt conversation – we make each other stronger. And that’s the true spirit of military life: resilience, community, and knowing that you’ve got a whole network of support behind you, no matter what.
For over a year, I have worked supporting military personnel and families as a Welfare Officer at SSAFA. Working within the RAF PS&SWS, my role is to ensure that those who serve, as well as their families, receive the support, advice, and emotional care they need.
Every day, I learn more about the exceptional challenges faced by the military community. From deployment stresses to transitioning back into civilian life, and everything in between, I’m here to help service members and their husbands, wives, partners, or even whole family navigate through the complexities of military life. My approach is to combine professionalism with a fun and relaxed way of supporting, making sure those who are helped feel at ease.
My work allows me to connect with the military community, building a clearer understanding of how best to support them. I cover a wide range of responsibilities—from guiding individuals through practical issues like signposting for financial aid or housing, to offering emotional support during challenging times, such as relationship issues, bereavement, or mental health concerns. The learning curve is steep, but I face it head-on with enthusiasm and commitment – just as all my RAF PS&SWS colleagues around the UK do.
While the challenges military families face are often serious, I like to bring a sense of light-heartedness to work. My approach is grounded in the belief that support should never feel overwhelming or isolating, but the very opposite.
Our unwavering commitment to the idea of never letting anyone battle alone speaks about the core mission of SSAFA. No matter what challenges an individual may face, they are part of a larger family that will support them every step of the way.
My role in military support is an overwhelming reminder of the importance of community and connection – and the power of a cuppa!
If you want to be part of this incredible support network, there are many ways to get involved. Whether you’re interested in volunteering your time, donating to SSAFA, or simply spreading the word about their work, every contribution helps.