'Ariadne's Thread' in veterans' reintegration: British experience for Ukraine
Roksolana Stefanyshyn, Vice President of Public Affairs at PanteonX Charitable Foundation
The UK's experience, which has long-established veteran support system, serves as a valuable blueprint for Ukraine in developing its own framework for readaptation and socio-economic reintegration of former servicemen. The British approach could become Ukraine's "Ariadne's thread," guiding it through the complex maze of challenges and opportunities in this process. However, before adapting this model to Ukraine's realities, it is crucial to understand how the UK implements its veteran support strategies at every level.
Key catalysts for proper veteran adaptation include public acknowledgement, social support, and assistance from civil society and professional organizations, media, and government institutions. The effectiveness of the British model likely stems from its "always and forever" principle which guarantees veterans and their families lifelong support, with the system evolving to meet their changing needs.
For Ukraine, still in the midst of prolonged warfare, the task of effectively reintegrating veterans into civilian life is urgent. Over a million men and women of working age are military veterans, and this large number makes it challenging to offer tailored services to all, especially given the widespread mental health crises in the population at large. Ukraine's heroes are returning to a country still suffering from destruction and aggression, to homes where family members also bear the traumatic impacts of conflict. Therefore, it is necessary to provide support not only for military personnel who participated in combat and their families, but also to focus efforts on helping the families of those who have died or are missing. Additionally, the process of recognition and granting veteran status to those who have not yet received it should be simplified.
The military identity that veterans carry can often grapple with aspects of the adaptation process. The internal struggles they face are profound, including life-altering injuries or hidden wounds like depression or post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as addiction, broken relationships, homelessness, and disability. Veterans need help dealing with their emotions and eventually breaking free from the cycles of war. It is far easier to rebuild infrastructure than to heal wounded souls. Therefore, timely psychological support is essential, shedding the stigma and biases surrounding it. Additionally, it is vital to begin with personal self-awareness: finding inner harmony, rethinking priorities, setting realistic goals, self-motivation, and being inspired by the success stories of other veterans.
The British veteran support system is based on a holistic approach, including as follows:
- Comprehensive healthcare and mental health support: The National Health Service (NHS) provides specialized care for veterans, focusing on addressing war-related psychological trauma. Project like "Enhancing Veteran Community Research Reintegration" emphasize tackling issues such as PTSD, depression, and substance abuse.
- Employment and skills development: The Ministry of Defence collaborates with NGOs like the Career Transition Partnership offering professional training and employment services, helping veterans convert their military skills into civilian careers. Around 75% of participants in the Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program found employment within three months, though these roles did not always match their previous qualifications or interests.
- Social reintegration and community support: The Armed Forces Covenant fosters understanding and respect between veterans and civilians. The Royal British Legion advocates for veterans and provides community support. Research shows that integrating veterans' services management boosts trust and engagement with relevant services, leading to better outcomes.
The UK has established a network of key institutions dedicated to veteran support. The Office for Veterans' Affairs coordinates government efforts, works with local authorities, and provides veterans and their families with information. The Defence Transition Services offers personalized recommendations and facilitates access to essential services. Charitable organizations like Combat Stress, Help for Heroes, SSAFA (the Armed Forces charity), and Connect Assist also actively assist veterans in various aspects of post-service life.
Core strategies for Ukraine:
- Establish a specialized mental health service modelled on the UK system, focused on trauma therapy, counselling, and support groups.
- Develop a transition-to-employment program that includes professional training, entrepreneurship support, and partnerships with the private sector. Incentivizing businesses to hire veterans would help to boost their employment rates.
- Implement a national covenant encouraging businesses, local authorities, and the public to support veterans, while strengthening community organizations for better social reintegration.
- Enhance access to services through digital platforms: similar to the UK's Veterans' Gateway online portal, which connects veterans with support services, easing navigation through available resources. In Ukraine, the newly launched e-Veteran web platform is a promising step in this direction.
- Create a long-term veteran support policy: adapt a policy ensuring continuous assistance for veterans throughout their lives, in response to their changing needs as they age.
- Leverage charitable funds: establish or finance rehabilitation and mental health centers, employment programs, as well as support veterans' integration into communities through volunteering and mentorship initiatives.
- Build an evidence base and communication strategy: collect data on public attitudes and employers' views to improve understanding of veterans' roles and promote their contributions to society. This will also enhance the orientation of government services.
Undoubtedly, caring for veterans is a national responsibility in which we all have a role to play. Successful reintegration requires support for both veterans and their families. Programs including family counselling and support services show stronger long-term stability outcomes. The PanteonX Charitable Foundation assists veterans and their families with psychological, rehabilitation, legal, and educational support. The foundation aims to establish centers to meet a wide range of veterans' needs in Ukraine and Spain. We invite partnership to help make this vision a reality in the near future.