The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) is proud to announce a significant grant to support a family within the naval community, helping them to overcome challenges and build a stable, supportive environment. This initiative, delivered in partnership with Home-Start Gosport, exemplifies the charity’s commitment to enhancing the well-being of naval personnel and their families.
In January 2024, a naval family faced an unexpected challenge that required immediate support. The family consisted of a Royal Navy serviceman, his fiancé from St Vincent and the Grenadines, and their newborn child. Shortly after arriving in the UK, the mother went into early labour, resulting in the birth of their baby via emergency C-Section. While the baby, holding a UK birth certificate, was entitled to healthcare services, the mother, on a temporary visa, was not.
Isolated and far from her home and support network, the new mother struggled with feelings of vulnerability and loneliness. Recognising her need for community integration and support, the family was referred by an RN social worker to Home-Start Gosport, a local charity providing crucial family support services.
The initial plan was to provide the mother with a home visiting volunteer and group support. However, with changes in the family’s circumstances—specifically the father’s deployment being postponed—the mother expressed a preference for group support over home visits. She began attending the Home-Start family support group weekly at the Crossley Community Centre in Gosport, where she connected with other parents and developed a local support network.
Over time, the mother’s social networks and overall well-being have significantly improved. She has started attending local stay-and-play groups and is looking forward to participating in the local Aggie’s groups with her child. The family’s home environment has also seen positive changes, particularly following the marriage of the parents, which has further stabilised their situation.
Reflecting on the support received, the mother shared,
I am so thankful for the Home-Start support. I think I would still be stuck in the home unsure where to start meeting new people and not know where everything is.
The RNRMC’s grant has enabled Home-Start Gosport to provide sustained support to this family, fostering a sense of community and stability. The ongoing assistance has not only helped the mother integrate into her new surroundings but has also contributed to the family's overall progress and well-being.
The RNRMC exists to support sailors, marines, and their families for life. Our mission is to provide vital assistance to the naval community, ensuring that all members, both serving and retired, and their families can access the support they need. Through partnerships with organisations like Home-Start, we strive to address the unique challenges faced by naval families and enhance their quality of life.
