Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust) are pleased to let you know that the Serving families: On the Move Programme under the Armed Forces Families Covenant Fund is now open and ready to welcome new applications!
Moving to a completely new place, surrounded by unfamiliar faces, can feel surreal. You’re pushed out of your comfort zone, knowing that if you don’t reach out, the feeling of loneliness can quickly grow. But not everyone has the confidence to walk into a coffee morning or event on their own for the first time.
“Having a first point of contact, a friendly face, a supportive presence makes such a difference. Someone who can help you find your way, learn about your new area and most importantly, open the door to connections and friendships.
That kind of support isn’t just help, it’s essential for finding your way and keeping your momentum in this military way of life” – Jenna, Army spouse.
Supporting you, on the move
Today, the Trust are reopening the Serving Families: On the Move programme for new applications. This year, you can apply for a grant of £5,000 to £50,000 for a 12 month project which will achieve one or more of the following outcomes -
- Families in a new posting have more accessible information to support them to settle into a new and unfamiliar location.
- Newly arrived families report improved wellbeing by being introduced to and connected with activities provided in their new area
- Fewer newly arrived and relocated service families report feeling isolated or lonely and more service families say they have effective support networks.
- Families feel more able to navigate the challenges of relocation, because their relationships are stronger.
Why are the Trust running this programme?
Frequent moves can disrupt social connections and support systems, often leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Over time, this can negatively impact mental health and family relationships.
One of our key priorities when launching the Armed Forces Covenant framework was to reduce stress and challenges for families. To support this aim, we introduced the Serving Families: On the Move programme.
To date, under the Armed Forces Covenant, we have awarded a total of over £1.3m to 14 projects aimed at improving the quality of life for service families impacted by relocation and as a direct result of service life.
This programme aims to support newly relocated service families, encouraging connection, and strengthening family relationships, ensuring armed forces communities are not left at a disadvantage.
The Trust are looking to support projects that use preventative or early intervention approaches to support families who have recently moved. These projects should focus to helping families settle into their new communities and build lasting, positive connections.
“It’s a very lonely life, and the sacrifices that we go through as a family always seem so significant yet not recognised.” – RAF spouse
Who can apply?
The Trust invite applications from:
• Registered Charites
• Community Interest Companies (CICs)
• Armed Forces Units and Bases
• Local authorities
Full eligibility details are available on the Trust website.
Find out more
There will be two deadlines for applications:
- If you apply by 12pm on 23 July 2025, you will receive a decision before end of September 2025.
- If you apply by 12pm on 17 December 2025, you will receive a decision before end of February 2026.
