SUPPORT FOR LEAVING LANCERS

Leaving the Army and transitioning to civilian life is not always a straightforward process. You have to think about securing a job, finding a place to live, signing up with a doctor – even coming to terms with the culture change of your new workplace can be hard work.

At the Regimental Association, we believe it is important for all Lancers to stay connected – both serving and veteran Lancers alike, or old comrades as we call them. We want to be there for everyone who has ever joined our ranks, even if it was just for one day, we appreciate your commitment to serving our country.

LEAVERS’ E-BOOK

Helping Lancers to transition to civilian life

Recently left the Lancers? At Home Headquarters (HHQ), we spend our days talking to veteran Lancers, or Old Comrades, so we know that building a new civilian life outside is not always easy. So, after talking to other Lancer veterans, we’ve put together a short booklet that should help make the move smoother for you. Download the booklet:

DOWNLOAD

INTRODUCING THE BUDDY PROGRAMME

Leaving the Army and transitioning to civilian life is not always a straightforward process. You have got to think about securing a job, finding a place to live, signing up with a doctor; even coming to terms with the culture change can be hard work.

After conducting a study in 2020, we were told by those who had left the Regiment that they felt the transition could have been better if there had been someone to talk to who had gone through the same experience. That is why we are piloting this Buddying Programme to tackle the problem. This programme is designed to be an informal arrangement between the Buddy and the person leaving. It can be as simple as picking up the phone for a chat about council tax, finding the local gym, heading down to the pub with one another, going on walks; anything that you both enjoy doing. Home Headquarters (HHQ) will be on hand to ensure you are both getting the most out of the programme, and we will also be learning from you on how to improve the experience for all those preparing to join civilian life

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

Benefits of becoming a buddy

• A chance to give-back and share your own experiences and advice with someone who is now in the position that you once were.
• A new social connection, as it may be someone you have not met before.
• An opportunity to reconnect with your ‘military identity’, which we know can be an issue after leaving the Army.

Benefits of having a buddy

• Talking to someone who understands the life experience you have had and the challenges you will face in transitioning could really help your mental health.
• It will also help practically, in terms of relocating to a new area and looking for a home, a job etc.

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A BUDDY OR ON THE LOOKOUT FOR A BUDDY?

 

BECOME A BUDDY
SEEKING A BUDDY

OTHER SUPPORT NETWORKS: