The CSJ is an independent think tank which was established in 2004 to seek effective solutions to poverty. As the Armed Forces Covenant states, ‘families play a vital role in supporting the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces’, but are sometimes not thought of as part of the military transition process. This research will help improve and promote understanding of the transition process for families and ensure they do not face disadvantage as a military family.

While there has been significant research into improving the transition of an individual leaving the Armed Forces, such as FiMT’s Transition Mapping Study (2013), little has been done to look at the process from the perspective of the military family.

The CSJ will research how the current system supports families going through the transition process and areas where they have been failed in the past. The findings will enable the CSJ to make recommendations on improving support going to families and to increase the general public’s awareness of the issues.

Air Vice-Marshal Ray Lock, Chief Executive of the Forces in Mind Trust, said: “The aim of FiMT is to provide independent, evidence-based knowledge that can be used to increase understanding and improve the transition of ex-Service personnel and their families. We are delighted to fund research projects such as this one which will concentrate on the family, and we look forward to working with the CSJ in using their recommendations to improve the process and outcomes for families.”

A spokesman for the CSJ said: “Many people leave the Armed Forces in a state of crisis and face a host of difficult social challenges which means it can be hard to adapt to everyday life.

“There is no doubt that families can play a crucial role in helping veterans transition back into civilian life. But much more research still needs to be done to fully understand the challenges faced by families and the support they need.

“This is why our project is so important and we are delighted to have received support from Forces in Mind to carry out this important work.”