21 hours ago
MP meets volunteers supporting armed forces families
An MP has visited volunteers who provide "confidential support" for people in the armed forces.
Danny Kruger, MP for East Wiltshire, visited the Salisbury Plain Community Serving Team (SCT) of SSAFA.
SCTs provide financial, practical, and emotional support for reservists, serving personnel, and their families, and operate independently of the chain of command.
In 2024, more than 4,800 people sought support from SCTs.
Mr Kruger met with various members of the SCT, including volunteer Julia Coxon, who is a military spouse and mother-of-two.
Ms Coxon shared insights on common challenges faced by military families, such as frequent relocations, isolation, employment challenges for spouses, and emotional and financial strains.
She told the MP about the "incredible work" the SCT does for those living in the Salisbury Plain area, which includes Tidworth, Bulford, and Ludgershall.
She said: "It was a pleasure to meet with Danny Kruger MP and talk through the incredible work our Serving Community Team delivers across Salisbury Plain, which ranges from practical and emotional assistance to hosting local events.
"Together, we discussed the real-life challenges military personnel and their families currently face, from financial pressures to emotional hurdles, and discussed our ongoing efforts to strengthen our support throughout the area."
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Mr Kruger praised the efforts of the SCT.
He said: "Many people will have heard of SSAFA, but won't be aware of the work they do on the ground in our communities to ensure military personnel and their families do not feel isolated or unsupported.
"I was delighted to meet Julia from SSAFA's Salisbury Plain Serving Community Team to hear more about the excellent work they do.
"Julia and her fellow volunteers offer support, from friendship and community outreach to practical help, for service families in our area.
"I'm grateful to them for all they do, and am keen to work with them however I can."
Salisbury Plain SCT, like all others around the country and overseas, is a vital part of its community and frequently hosts events and gatherings.
Serving personnel and their families can learn more about SCTs by searching for "SSAFA SCT".
