Rosie McEwan, Community Liaison Officer in Mons, Belgium, takes a look at BritLEAD, a personal and professional development programme for military families.

Military families play a crucial role in supporting their serving personnel. However, they often face challenges, such as frequent relocations and career disruptions. BritLEAD came about as a means to bridge the gap in learning and development opportunities for military families, especially whilst overseas. It launched as a weekly group in January 2023 with the help of volunteers Robyn Watson and Vanessa Talbot-Brown.

BOOSTING WELLBEING

BritLEAD aims to create a supportive community that enhances knowledge, skill sets and wellbeing. It aims to provide learning and development opportunities for British military family members, addressing their unique needs. The goal is to create a diverse and inclusive environment that promotes self-worth, confidence and employability.

The initiative focuses on delivering workshops, training and networking opportunities to enhance skills and share knowledge. By offering support and resources, BritLEAD aims to empower the whole community, improve morale, and increase spouses’ adaptability, regardless of their location or career changes.

Vanessa explains: “There is a tremendous amount available to spouses through official military charities such as free training, education, mentoring and small business advice, but we found that not many people were aware of this, me included.

“So, our mission is to provide signposting and access to the support for those of us who often face the challenges of frequent relocations and career disruptions.

“We meet most Thursdays at SHAPE house in term time and so far, we have had a variety of informal networking sessions and more formal talks and workshops from the likes of the Forces Employment Charity, AFF and BFBS Academy.”

SKILL DEVELOPMENT

BritLEAD strives to create an inclusive environment that supports all families. Sessions seem popular with male spouses who may not have wanted to attend other events. It aims to promote the wellbeing and mental health of individuals by fostering self-worth and confidence. Lastly, it seeks to prepare family members for future relocations through skill development such as interview techniques. It is aimed specifically at British military spouses, other halves and dependents of those serving at SHAPE but there are now plans to expand to other locations, including Naples.

Sandra Grant, yoga teacher, mother-oftwo and army wife, explains: “BritLEAD has been a fantastic opportunity for me to invest in myself by developing new skills and revisiting ones that have faded over time. The sessions are a time to socialise with other people from the community, share stories and foster new friendships and connections. I have completed a business start-up course which has given me the confidence to move forward with my own business.”

Vanessa adds: “I have gained a tremendous amount from BritLEAD and from the volunteering. I did have quite a big job when in the UK and came here to have a career sabbatical but found my professional confidence did waver very quickly. Through BritLEAD’s CV and interview sessions plus access to monitoring through Tech Vets and the Forces Employment Charity, I feel it has put me in great stead for my return to the UK.”

To find out more, email gso-ejsubelgium-communityhub@mod.gov.uk


Main photo: Rosie McEwan and Esther Thomas of AFF

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