Northumbria University, in partnership with the War Widows’ Association, are exploring social isolation and loneliness in the military widow(er)s community.
Academics from Northumbria University are looking for individuals whose partners have died in the UK Armed Forces or after their service, to take part in new research into loneliness and social isolation.
What is the purpose of this study?
There are almost 15,000 war widows and widowers in the UK today and this study will inform national debate and lead to the development of policy recommendations and guidance for improved service provision.
The aim of this study is to explore the experiences of social isolation and loneliness, as well as to understand services targeting social participation of military widow(er)s.
Who is carrying out this study?
Researchers at Northumbria University are carrying out this research, in partnership with the War Widows’ Association. This study was funded by Forces in Mind Trust, and the University is working closely with the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Widows’ Association, Army Widows’ Association, and Royal Air Force Widows’ Association.
Mary Moreland, Chair of the War Widows’ Association, lost her husband, a member of the Ulster Defence Regiment, when he was killed on his way to work by members of the IRA in 1988. She said:
“When there is no longer a serving person in the family unit those left behind are very frequently forgotten. Bereavement can add to increased feelings of isolation and loneliness, however as military widows no longer belong to the armed forces community, these feeling may be magnified. On behalf of the Association I am delighted to be working in collaboration with Northumbria University and Forces in Mind Trust on this project.”
Ray Lock CBE, Chief Executive of Forces in Mind Trust, funders of the research, said
“This research is both relevant and timely and will provide us with the necessary insights to produce a powerful set of recommendations that will improve the support available for our military widows and widowers.”
To take part in this study please follow this link
Hard copies can also be posted out if required, and the deadline is the 30th June.
