Relationships & Family Support

Armed Forces Community HQ believes in a ‘Families First’ approach to supporting our Armed Forces community.  We recognise that it is not just about the person who is serving or previously served, but also their parents, significant others, children and anyone with caring responsibilities. We provide holistic support for the individual and the family unit, with a person centred approach.

Relationships

Developing and maintaining a healthy relationship can be difficult when one or both partners are faced with issues and challenges that create stress, strain and affect mental health and wellbeing. We can provide relationship counselling to support communication and boundaries, and help with family life and parenting. 

If you are facing a relationship breakdown, or concerned about abusive behaviours, our team can empower and support you to decide what is best for you and your family. We know how hard it can be to find the right help and support, but know that you are not alone. 

Domestic Abuse and Domestic Violence is not just about physical abuse – it also includes emotional and psychological, coercive or controlling behaviour, and financial. 

If you would like support with your relationship, or would like to access our peer support group, then please get in touch. 

Other links: 

Women’s Aid (national)

DIAS (Wigan)

Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline

ManKind Initiative (national)

Building Stronger Families (Royal Navy & Royal Marines)

Children & Young People

AFCHQ regularly extends support through targeted interventions and advocacy for children and young people of the Armed Forces community. We assess the needs of the individual, and coordinate support with key services which might include schools, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), cadet associations and youth organisations, and other charitable organisations with targeted interventions. 

If you would like to find out more about how we can support your child, please contact us.

Carers

We know that many people are in paid and unpaid caring roles, and may have served themselves or be supporting someone who served which may bring unique challenges in addition to the issues caring brings. 

The Royal British Legion published findings in their 2021 report which highlighted that 2 in 5 carers had not received any support in the last two years, and worrying concerns over the impact to their mental and physical health.

AFCHQ offers confidential, bespoke information, advice and guidance to carers in the Armed Forces community. We also offer access to individual support, peer support groups, mental health and wellbeing services, advice on entitlements, and refer to trusted relevant organisations that can help.