To be able to meet the unique needs of Armed Forces personnel and their families, SSAFA provides volunteer support to local serving communities both in UK and at British military bases overseas.  

Our volunteer-delivered Serving Community Teams (SCTs) help the serving community access financial, practical and emotional support whenever they need it.   

Separate from the chain of command, SCT volunteers provide a confidential service to those in the serving community, including Reservists, serving personnel and their families whether living on bases or in their own homes. 

Raising awareness and funds are important elements of the work Serving Community Teams do. Depending on your location, other types of support available could include: 

• Community Connection events - groups that bring community members together promoting connection and reducing loneliness. 

• Community Volunteer support – a listening ear, practical help with odd jobs, or signposting to other organisations. 

• Community Grants – small grants to assist services as they deliver support to the serving community.  

• Individual Grants – small one-off grants to support individuals with urgent needs that are not funded by welfare or statutory agencies.

• Fundraising activities and events – from bingo evenings to cake sales, craft activities to running a stand at a families day. Anything that engages the community to raise funds and awareness of SSAFA.

• Loan stores (mainly overseas) – hire equipment to help service families in their own home.  

The SCTs will benefit:

Current serving personnel and immediate family members including long-term partners (as defined by Service Family Accommodation (SFA) criteria), Reservists and their immediate family members.

To find your local Serving Community Team, email [email protected]