GROWTH: A Veteran’s Guide to Getting More Out of Life

You’ve swapped airbases for school runs, night shifts for nappy changes. Your service may be complete, but the mission continues, this time for your family’s future. This guide covers your key ops: finances, schooling, mental health, family downtime, and making the most of your hard-earned perks.

Family Finances – Budget Expansion

With a growing family, financial planning is mission-critical. Start by claiming Child Benefit and exploring Tax-Free Childcare to reduce nursery costs. If you’re upsising your home, look into the Forces Help to Buy scheme, even post-service, you might qualify.

Mortgage providers familiar with military pay structures are your best allies. Factor in future costs, more bedrooms, more storage and budget accordingly. Seek out veteran-aware brokers for tailored advice.

Schooling – Deploying the Next Generation

Your children’s education is their first real-world deployment. The UK system includes:

• Early Years (3-4): Free nursery hours, check eligibility with your local council.
• Primary (4-11): Core learning begins.
• Secondary (11-16): GCSE years.
• Post-16 (16-18): A-Levels, apprenticeships, or vocational paths.

Use OFSTED reports to assess schools. High-rated schools often have catchment restrictions—plan your move accordingly. Apply early and appeal if needed; military families may get priority.

Parental involvement is encouraged: support homework, attend meetings, and engage with extracurriculars. For mid-year moves, contact the local council, many accommodate service-related relocations.

Mental Health – Strength in the Mind Means Strength in the Mission

Mental resilience is essential. Op COURAGE is a dedicated NHS service for veterans, confidential and military-aware.

Beyond crisis care, focus on consistent upkeep:

• Meditation & Journaling: Helps reduce stress and build self-awareness.
• Helping Others: Volunteering strengthens community ties.
• Fitness: Regular exercise boosts mood and mental clarity.

Schedule recovery time, stay social, and make sleep a priority. It’s not weakness—it’s strategy.

Sport, Culture & Family Downtime

Stay connected through activity. Veterans often get discounts to major sporting events, football, rugby, cricket, even F1. Try your luck while we grow our partner base to bring these offers directly to you, like Surrey Cricket.

For family outings, explore theme parks, museums, and historic sites. The National Trust and English Heritage offer discounted access, and military-friendly rates apply at many attractions.

Prefer quieter weekends? The UK has excellent walking trails, from coastal paths to national parks. Getting outdoors helps you recharge mentally and physically.

Rewards & Perks – Stack the Savings

Life post-service can be pricey, but there are savings if you know where to look our partnership with 360 offer:

• Shopping: Discounts on electronics, clothing, and furniture.
• Fuel & Insurance: Specialist providers offer lower rates for veterans.
• Travel: Reduced fares for rail, flights, hotels, and holidays.
• Fitness & Wellness: Cheaper gym memberships, physio, and alternative therapies.
• Entertainment & Dining: Military rates at cinemas, restaurants, and theatres.

Use these perks to stretch your income and enjoy the quality of life you’ve earned.

Final Orders

You’ve got your brief: plan smart, support your family, and use what you’ve earned. Thriving in civvy life is entirely possible, with the right mindset, intel, and tools.

Mission on. You’ve got this.