Funding Boost for 'Support Paws'

ABF logo.pngIn a significant move to support the well-being of military children, the Trustees of the Army Benevolent Fund have approved a block grant of £15,000 for the 'Support Paws – Empowering Military Children' project. This generous funding is a testament to the Army Benevolent Fund's commitment to enhancing the lives of those connected to the British Army, including the families of serving personnel.
 

The Support Paws programme, developed by Veterans With Dogs, is a pioneering initiative aimed at addressing the distinct challenges faced by children from military families within UK schools. Initially structured as a five-week programme, it is carefully designed to provide emotional support and boost academic engagement among these children.

The programme consists of a series of sessions where small groups of military children work with Community Dogs and their handlers. These interactions are crafted to enhance emotional resilience, reduce anxiety, and improve academic focus. By integrating canine psychology with child psychology, Veterans With Dogs creates a comprehensive programme that combines canine safety with indirect social and emotional learning techniques.
 
The programme incorporates activities tailored to address the specific concerns of military children. These concerns, already identified through research, include building and maintaining relationships amidst frequent relocations, coping with the uncertainty and stress associated with parental deployments, encouraging adaptability and flexibility in the face of change, and developing self-awareness and emotional regulation skills.
 
By focusing on these areas, the Support Paws programme provides a supportive environment where children can develop essential life skills, fostering a more positive and resilient mindset.
 

The £15,000 grant from the Army Benevolent Fund will play a pivotal role in expanding the reach and effectiveness of the 'Support Paws' project. This funding will enable Veterans With Dogs to further expand our programme, ensuring more military children benefit from this unique support.

The Army Benevolent Fund's contribution reflects its broader commitment to supporting the entire Service community. By partnering with initiatives like 'Support Paws,' the Fund demonstrates its dedication to enhancing the lives of those connected to the Army, from serving personnel to their families.

Craig MacLellan, CEO of Veterans With Dogs, emphasised the significance of this funding: "We are deeply grateful for the Army Benevolent Fund's support. This grant will enable us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of more military children, providing them with essential support and assistance through our Support Paws programme."