Transition with SSAFA’s mentoring service

Off By Ed Hanna

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, provides support to members of the Armed Forces and their family when they leave the Military for civilian life.

Initially launched to support individuals discharged from Military service as wounded, injured or sick (WIS), SSAFA’s mentoring service now helps all of those who struggle to transition to civilian life, providing long-term, one-to-one support. The service has a holistic approach, providing support to any Service-leaver and their spouse for up to two years post discharge. Service-leavers (mentees) will be assigned a specially trained mentor, ready to guide and help deal with any issues, building confidence and motivation.

Receiving support
In 2020, Jamie McGuin received support after he was medically discharged with a back injury following an 11-year Royal Navy career. At the height of the pandemic, with no job, accommodation or support network, Jamie turned to SSAFA for help. Now, with tailored advice from his mentor, he has landed a job in telecoms and is about to purchase his first home.

“I needed something solid to fall back on and felt like SSAFA could help me reach the right point. I connected with SSAFA’s mentoring service manager and was assigned my own mentor, Barry.

Being ex-Forces, Barry knew what it was like to leave the Military. He gave non-biased advice, listened openly and really helped me out. He was able to offer advice and empower me to think for myself.”