Be part of a unique community

 

The heart of the Naval Service

All personnel and their loved ones have one thing in common; they are part of the Naval Service community. This community is central to everything the Royal Navy stands for. 

That's why there is a wealth of support available, from help with finance or housing, to advice about deployments. And it's available to all, whether you live in Service accommodation or in your own home. 

Family and People Support

What support is available?

Being part of the Royal Navy community means you're never on your own. Whether you're a veteran, serving personnel or their family, you can connect with like-minded individuals, colleagues, and even expert advisers. 

What to do in an emergency?

Every deployment has an emotional impact, whether you’re a first-timer or have years of experience. Recognising the signs and preparing well can make it much easier to cope. Discover the five stages of deployment and see what support is available in each.

“The Emotional Cycle of Deployment” was first developed by Kathleen Vestal Logan, M.S., M.A. 

Family

Circumstances may arise, such as a death in the family or a serious illness, which make it necessary for your serving person to return home.

Serving person is overseas

If it is necessary for your serving person to return from overseas you should contact;

The Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC) on 01452 519 951. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Service person is in the UK

If an emergency situation arises while you serving person is in the UK you should contact;

Royal Navy Family and People Support (RN FPS) Portal on 0800 145 6088.

Lines are open:

Monday - Friday  8:00am-8:00pm       Saturday & Sunday (and Public Holidays)  8:00am-4:00pm


Outside of these hours, contact the Officer of the Watch;

Portsmouth - 02392 723875

Plymouth - 01752 555220

Faslane - 01436 674321 ext 4005

Yeovilton - 01935 455444

Serving Personnel

As deployment approaches, it’s common to feel the stresses that come with anticipation and a sense of loss. 

What can I expect?


It can be hard to accept that partners are going to leave, causing unexpressed anger to surface. This is a naturally emotional time, so these tensions and some arguments are not unusual.

Restlessness, depression or irritability are also common at this stage. Deployed personnel often feel a sense of guilt, while their loved ones may be angry or resentful.

Who is affected?

All the family will be feeling emotional tension at this stage. It’s common to internalise these feelings to preserve the wellbeing of the person being deployed, however it is also constructive to be open and candid. These conversations can sometimes be painful and stressful, but this is outweighed by clearing the air, so you can be there for one another.

How can I prepare?

In the time leading up to deployment, there are some practical areas to consider to avoid unnecessary last minute stress and maximise time to enjoy together as a family.

Utilities
Do you know how to turn off the water, gas and electricity? Or how the heating system works? Who is your service provider? If not, find out before a loved one deploys.

Documentation
Make sure you know where all important documents are kept.

Renewal dates
Make a list of when important things need renewing. For example, you need to be aware when your car tax, MOT, car service, and insurances are due.

Will
Make sure you know where your will is to remove any worry.

Property
If your property is going to be empty for some time, check that your home and its contents are insured. It may be worth considering re-directing your mail and giving a door key to a neighbour.

Financial

In association with the British Legion and the Ministry of Defence, MoneyForce has been established as the home of financial guidance for UK Service Personnel and their families.