Improving data access and coherence across the transition landscape
FiMT publishes a new policy brief on improving data in the transition landscape
- Enabler
Whilst we know that most service leavers and their families make a successful transition to civilian life, some continue to face challenges. The Understanding the Transition from Military to Civilian Life report from QinetiQ and RAND Europe highlighted that progress has been made in recent years but there is still more to be done to ensure that Service leavers and their families can achieve suitable, sustainable outcomes.
Data and coherence in the transition landscape
Over the last decade, the availability and quality of data on ex-Service personnel’s outcomes have improved. The release of Census data for England, Wales and Scotland, the first Veterans’ Survey, and the development of new platforms such as the Veterans Data Dashboard and MONARCH, have all strengthened understanding of the Armed Forces community.
However, despite the progress, significant challenges remain. Data sharing between military and civilian systems or between statutory and third sector organisations can be inconsistent, disrupting continuity of support. Identification and referral processes for those needing additional support at the point of discharge remain inconsistent. There is also a lack of consistent evaluation across government schemes and third sector provision, making it difficult to assess what is working and how services can be the most effective.
Policy Brief
Our new policy brief examines these key barriers and sets out recommendations to improve data quality and coherence across the transition landscape. Creating a more coherent ecosystem of support is essential to ensuring positive transition outcomes for the whole Armed Forces community.