“I was proud you were serving your country and I was glad you were doing what you wanted to. But I was really worried. After all, you may be a soldier, but you’re still my baby.” – Pam and her daughter, ex-army dog-handler, Alex.

PAM’S Story, a new film launched by Veterans’ Gateway for Mother’s Day, shares the highs and lows of being the mum of an ex-army dog-handler. 

Many parents, like Pam, feel powerless to help when their child joins the forces and following discharge, which is why Veterans’ Gateway is highlighting the support available to both service leavers and their parents.

Recognising that mums and dads are often the first to notice if their son or daughter is struggling in civvy street, the consortium of organisations and Armed Forces charities allows families to source info on behalf of their children.

Examples of the concerns voiced by those contacting Veterans’ Gateway include “my daughter doesn’t think she has the skills to do any other job now she’s left the forces” and “my son seems very distant and not the same since he’s come home”.

Many of the Gateway’s advisors are veterans so have a good understanding of the issues facing the ex-forces community. By assessing needs at the first point of contact, they can connect veterans and families in the UK and abroad with the right organisation that can help. 

With so many military organisations out there, it can be confusing knowing which one to turn to when you need advice quickly. Veterans’ Gateway has a network of expert partners and specialist organisations who offer guidance on a range of areas from finding the right job and somewhere to live, to getting your mental and physical health on track.  

To find out more, visit veteransgateway.org.uk

 

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