Scotty’s Little Soldiers is known for supporting children who have experienced the death of a parent who has served in the armed forces, whether through active service, illness, accident or if they took their own life.
Support can begin from when a parent receives a terminal diagnosis and carry on right up to their children’s 25th birthday.
And it’s not just children and young people that can benefit. Grief affects the whole family, which is why Scotty’s provides a community for the entire family, enabling them to connect with others who truly understand, and where children and their parents or carers can access specialist bereavement support tailored to their needs.
Assistance covers all three services and is available to both regular and reserve forces as well as veterans.
There are three programmes:
● SMILES offers fun activities, respite breaks and group events to bring joy and connection.
● The SUPPORT programme provides emotional and mental health help, pre- and post-bereavement counselling and support navigating housing, pensions and other entitlements.
● STRIDES offers personal development, removes barriers to education and provides teachers with resources and training.
One parent who has used the service said: “I feel so relieved that I have someone I can turn to and ask questions about navigating bereavement with my daughter. I know there will be difficult times ahead and I’m so relieved and grateful that I have access to such incredible support.
“I have gained confidence in being a good parent to my daughter in this difficult situation. The support with advice, workshops, vouchers and the holiday week has been a lifeline.”
By the end of this year the charity will have helped 800 bereaved military children and young people – almost 70 per cent of them from army families. It is currently researching the need for bereavement support within the wider military community and exploring how its services could grow in the future.
Find out more at scottyslittlesoldiers.co.uk