AFCSP agreed to call JW to set up a time to speak to her virtually and determine how best she could be supported.
JW is a widow. Her husband served in the Army for 33 years and was diagnosed with penile cancer in 2018 and passed in September 2019. The client lost both her parents in 2017 (10 weeks apart from each other). The client has 2 sons, 1 of which was due to join the Royal Marines in March 2022 but became injured prior to commencing his training.
JW feels alone, very unhappy and finds it difficult to move forward. JW also lives with constant anxiety and stress due to an ongoing domestic situation with her immediate neighbours. JW suffered severe trauma due to a road accident in 2020, which affects her mobility.
JW met with AFCSP (Armed Forces Compensation Scheme Programme). JW presenting as being lost and very unsure what she should be doing. Her immediate financial and housing needs were not an issue at the time. JW lacked the confidence to explore things she could do with her time. AFCSP encouraged her to consider developing new interests which could satisfy her need to fill her day and relieve the loneliness and isolation.
Both the social prescribing link worker/coach and AFCSP have provided options for her to consider becoming more active and involved with the immediate community, particularly, volunteering opportunities at Riding for the Disabled (JW is an accomplished horsewoman). Local bereavement groups’ information and counselling choices were made available. AFCSP contacted the Army Widows Association for JW and advised JW of the family support from SSAFA, the RBL and local GP based groups. The AFCSP worked with JW for access to the settings for Veterans Gateway together with 2 phone apps primarily targeted at getting people to become more active and improve their wellbeing through walking and exercise. This is something JW was keen to do, as her mobility issues were in fact the decider needed for her to become more mobile. The AFCSP checked whether local solicitors had any links with the military in the area and urged JW to begin looking for a competent solicitor to deal with the domestic issue.
Social prescribing link worker/coach and AFCSP (Armed Forces Compensation Scheme Programme) spoke to JW in May 2022.
A positive improvement and change in thinking patterns. JW has attended the bereavement course at her local surgery which she found helpful and supportive. JW has re-entered the world of carriage driving, has joined a walking group and has taken up swimming in the sea. JW has connected with new and old friends; making time at home to relax. JW is now talking openly to her sons about how she has been feeling and is looking forward to being a grandmother this year. The involvement of the AFCSP was key in this case as the client responded to someone from an AFC background and benefitted from that conversation angle of understanding.
“Help & Care provided access to ‘non-judgemental’ and very caring support support workers who provided the boost, support and encouragement to get going again.”
