Figure 14:


This particular question (Fig 14) was included in the survey following a comment made by a non- serving family member who had her RAF dependant’s ID card taken from her when she tried to access her local unit (not her parent unit). She told us she felt ostracised by the RAF. We are aware that MoD policy regarding dependant ID cards was amended some time ago, but many spouses told us that this particular policy change has left them feeling angry and isolated, especially if they do not live on, or close to, their serving family member’s parent unit.


When we asked families who did not live close to their parent unit whether they would wish to have access to their local RAF unit welfare services/facilities, 32% told us that they would. This indicates that many families still want to be involved in the RAF community, even if they have opted to live in their own homes.


“As I have no dependants pass, it is just another way of feeling that I am not welcome. This system really needs to be addressed.”


“Even though I live 3 miles away from our old unit I don’t feel welcome to go on camp and I no longer have a dependants pass to get on camp to use the HIVE etc. I feel lucky to be in my own house but very isolated from the RAF.”


“We are housed at an Army base and I feel I would not be able to use their welfare facilities, and we live too far away from his parent unit or the nearest RAF unit.”


“I have no contact at all with the parent unit, no access to it, and too far away to take part in activities there. Luckily, the unit where we live is very friendly, and I have made a home here”.


“Access is generally good; however, not everyone is always aware what is on offer so greater communication is needed.”


www.raf-ff.org.uk 19


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