The Army Families Federation (AFF) has published the results of their most recent survey, which focussed specifically on families posted to Scotland.
The feedback they’ve received from Army families in Scotland has helped the charity to learn more about Army family life there, and will be used to help shape their upcoming Scotland roadshow in Kinloss on 23 March.
Main challenges
45% of respondents said it was difficult or very difficult to see families and close friends, compared to postings outside Scotland. 45% had difficulty finding childcare places and 65% felt they were not receiving enough information regarding possible future movement of Army units.
Highlighting the positives
In contrast, positives of a Scottish posting included easy access to a doctor and dentist, the opportunity for outdoor activities and, for those originally from Scotland, being so close to family.
Indeed, 62% of respondents indicated that if they were able to, they would choose to settle in Scotland: “Despite the distance, we’ve fallen in love with the area and would like to buy our own house here.”
Using your views
AFF found differing views expressed by Scottish families and those families from outside Scotland. Families highlighted many positive aspects about living in Scotland and these should continue to be highlighted in any information provided ahead of a Scotland posting. However, a large number of respondents reported difficulties accessing appropriate childcare places: “Left my position with the NHS to become a self-employed childminder due to the lack of flexible childcare options available locally.”
The differences in children’s education provision in Scotland were a concern for some families, particularly when moving between education systems. Information ahead of postings and support when moving between UK education systems is crucial for families.
AFF UK & Overseas Director Julie Lowe said, “AFF will highlight the themes raised in our survey with the relevant stakeholders at our upcoming roadshow. We are encouraging as many families as possible to come along to the Hunters Bar in Kinloss Barracks on 23 March, 9.30am to 1pm. If you can’t attend on the day, we’d love you to submit your question in advance to us.”
Full details about AFF’s Scotland roadshow can be found at www.aff.org.uk/scotlandroadshow
Questions in advance to Annabel Ingram, AFF Regional Manager North, at rmnorth@aff.org.uk
ENDS
Notes to Editor:
- The Army Families Federation (AFF) is the independent voice of Army families: Regular or Reserve, wherever they are based, whatever the make-up of their family.
- Throughout the UK and overseas, AFF works hard to achieve policy change and progress in favour of Army families; they offer advice and guidance on all aspects of Army life, confidentially and in an easy-to-digest way.
- They work with other agencies such as MOD, government, charities and other key players to strengthen their cause and fight for a fair deal for families everywhere.
- Their family-focussed website (www.aff.org.uk) contains information about all aspects of Army family life, and their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages offer families another easy way to contact us, interact or simply follow the work we are doing.
- AFF operates by four core values, which are pivotal to our work. These are:
- AFF always puts families first
- AFF can be trusted
- AFF is bold and determined
- AFF is inclusive
- The full results from our Scotland survey can be viewed at www.aff.org.uk/aff_in_action/aff_surveys.htm
Media Contact:
For more information about AFF’s work in support of spouse employment and training, contact Sarah Bowie, AFF Comms & Marketing Director, at commsmarketingdirector@aff.org.uk
