Neil Binder
Neil Binder
15 April, 2025
Business

Families First – Strength Pathways for families of veterans and serving personnel

We're pleased to share that STEPWAY CIO has been awarded £100,000 from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, through their Family Focus Programme. This funding will support the launch of our new project, Families First – Strength Pathways, which is set to make a real and lasting difference to families of veterans and serving personnel across Worcestershire and the West Midlands.

Families First – Strength Pathways

The 18-month programme will offer free, tailored support for Armed Forces families, including:

  • One-to-one emotional and practical support
  • Wellbeing and resilience sessions
  • Family bonding activities
  • Creative workshops
  • Employability support for family carers

Sessions will be delivered from:

  • The LINK Community Hub, Worcester
  • STEPWAY Wellbeing Centre, Worcester
  • STEPWAY Wellbeing Centre, Oldbury

"As CEO of STEPWAY, I see first-hand the gap in provision for Armed Forces families — often referred to as the silent ranks. These are the people who stand quietly behind those who serve, frequently facing challenges without access to the support they need.

“This programme will provide the much-needed ground-level and practical support for Armed Forces families – no matter their background or circumstance. We are proud to deliver something truly accessible and meaningful to the families who have given so much.” - Dawn Turner, CEO, STEPWAY CIO

We are incredibly grateful to the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust for this opportunity to deliver meaningful support at the heart of our communities.