First aid for the mind

Stigma is often cited as the greatest barrier to people seeking help for their mental health, which is why Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England aims to train one-in-ten people as mental health first aiders. I...

Your health overseas

IN A recent AFF overseas survey, we were pleased to see a rise in satisfaction levels relating to healthcare provision overseas compared to 2015 figures. The exception was a drop to just five per cent satisfac...

Virtual health helper

SSAFA’s health visiting involvement in BATUK, Kenya began in 2016 when the charity was asked to consider providing a service for families. AFF’s Kenya Co-ordinator provided evidence of the need for a health v...

Lyla’s journey

Army life can be tough at the best of times, but how do you cope as a family if your child is sick with a serious illness? Soldier Paul O’Donovan and his wife Kirsty are doing just that with their five-year-old...

What price a tan?

A NEW campaign has been launched to raise awareness of the dangers of sun damage and tanning. The drive, which includes three hard-hitting videos including one featuring a father and former soldier in his 50...

Fertility in the Forces

Experiencing fertility problems can be tough, but Armed Forces couples can face additional challenges, such as time spent apart and moves potentially resulting in a longer wait for fertility treatment. NHS Engl...

Early exit

The change from military to civilian life may be an anxious time for your family. If your soldier’s exit from the Army is sudden and unplanned, because of medical discharge, the uncertainty can significantly in...

Strength in numbers

DESPITE its proximity to Newcastle upon Tyne, Albemarle Barracks in Northumberland – home to 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery – is in a very rural location with limited transport links. So when members of th...

Keep your family fighting fit

The Army looks after your soldier’s health and wellbeing – and there are various initiatives which you can support and join in with. Karen Ross, AFF Health & Additional Needs Specialist, spoke to Major Trac...

A fitting profession

Army spouse Samantha Payne hasn’t always been fit. In fact, she admits that most of her adult life has been spent unfit and overweight, particularly after being pregnant. But with support, Samantha lost six sto...