Forces in Mind Trust has awarded funds of £183, 930 to the King’s Centre for Military Health Research to undertake a two-year study to examine employment and finances across the transition process as personnel leave the Armed Forces and transition to civilian life, with a particular focus on the role mental health…
Researchers will provide a comprehensive picture of the economic aspects of transition, including how mental health, as well as pre-enlistment factors and Service history, affect economic trajectories and the experiences of potentially at-risk groups.
The study will expand current research by tracking both positive and negative changes in socio-economic status, including a focus on certain groups who historically have demonstrated less successful outcomes (i.e. women, Early Service Leavers, and Reserves), to gain a holistic understanding of the pathways of economic transition and how these relate to mental health and wellbeing.
This work involves assessment of several large datasets and will be supported by a series of interviews. Findings from the project will inform statutory, military and charitable bodies on how to best ensure all ex-Service personnel gain rewarding employment and can avoid the pitfalls that lead to a poor economic transition.
Ray Lock, Chief Executive, Forces in Mind Trust, said: “Two of the most important elements of a successful and sustainable transition are meaningful employment and mental health. Previous research has shown that there is a correlation between both. This study will enable policy makers and service providers to ensure that all ex-Service personnel are informed and prepared to navigate the transition process successfully.”
Dr Howard Burdett, Kings Centre for Military Health Research, said: “This study will build on the work of King’s Centre for Military Health Research on post-service outcomes for UK veterans by producing an in-depth investigation into why some veterans are successful after leaving, while others are not.”
