Harborough develops online training to enhance Armed Forces Community wellbeing

August 10, 2026

Public service providers did not always understand the impacts of Service life on health and wellbeing. 

What was the situation?

HealthWatch and a local authority conducted a survey about wellbeing among the Armed Forces community. It found that 22% and 29% of respondents had mental health and physical issues respectively. The respondents felt they had a lack of support, access, and understanding from their public service providers.

What made this Covenant disadvantage?

Members of the Armed Forces community can experience health conditions and circumstances that are directly related to Service life. If healthcare professionals have limited awareness of these, they may be less able to identify issues and provide appropriate support. This can make it more challenging for members of the Armed Forces community to access the support they need compared to civilians.

What was done to help?

The Harborough Locality Integrated Leadership Team – which brings together public and third sector organisations – responded to the survey findings by working with the NHS, Armed Forces officers, and healthcare case workers. They developed an online training workshop designed to improve healthcare practitioners’ understanding of Service life and the health issues that can affect members of the Armed Forces community.

What was the outcome?

Healthcare practitioners were able to increase their awareness of the experiences and health needs of, and engagement with, the Armed Forces community. Anecdotal evidence showed there was also an increase in referrals to specialist support providers, helping individuals from the Armed Forces community to access more appropriate support.

Wider information

You can read more widely about:

• Covenant disadvantage and special provision (the two types of case study in this database)
• Covenant support for the Armed Forces community: Healthcare
• How NHS bodies can support the Armed Forces community and implement the Covenant

Disclaimer: This case study is part of the Covenant case study database. MOD has developed the database to illustrate examples of good practice for organisations in scope of the Covenant. It serves as a guide for effective Covenant delivery, offering practical insights into achieving fairness for the Armed Forces community. Delivery of the Covenant may vary across the UK. This means there is no guarantee the solution outlined in this case study is available in your area.