Children from Armed Forces families can experience unique challenges as a result of military life. Frequent moves, periods of family separation during deployments, and changes to routines can affect their education, wellbeing, and sense of stability.

As a proud garrison county, Herefordshire is committed to supporting children and young people from service families. In line with the Armed Forces Covenant, schools, early years settings, and partner organisations work together to reduce disruption and ensure children receive consistent support throughout their education.

By promoting inclusive practice, strong transitions, and emotional wellbeing, Herefordshire aims to provide a nurturing environment where children from military families can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, despite the challenges that service life can bring.

Key principles include:

• Supporting smooth transitions when children move into or out of the area
• Promoting emotional wellbeing and resilience
• Minimising disruption to learning and development
• Working closely with families, schools, and community organisations
• Ensuring children from service families have the opportunity to achieve their full potential

Local support

You will find information on local support for service families in the Education and service families section on the Talk Community website. This includes information on local services, support networks, and resources available to children and families connected to the Armed Forces.

Other support

Early years providers can access a range of resources and support to help meet the needs of children from service families:

• Little Troopers provides practical resources and emotional support for children with a parent serving in the Armed Forces. Their resources help children manage periods of separation and the challenges associated with deployment.
• Naval Children's Charity offers financial and wellbeing support for children and young people aged up to 25 from Royal Navy and Royal Marines families, including veterans. Support includes resources designed to help younger children understand and cope with a parent's deployment.
• Army Families Federation (AFF) provides independent information and advice on a wide range of issues affecting service families, including education, housing, childcare, employment, and family life. Families can access support through their relevant Service Families Federation.

These organisations can help early years providers better understand the experiences of service children and offer practical support to families navigating the challenges of military life.