There is now an allocated budget for counselling services across the Army which includes counselling of all types. It includes provision of bereavement counselling for widows/ers/recognised partners and dependent children - it is available with immediate effect and will be available in future years. The bereavement counselling will be based on what is best for the individual, using local counsellors for ease of access where possible. Users will be fully involved in the selection of a counsellor.
A widow would be offered a course of six sessions after an initial exploratory session with the Army Welfare Service (AWS) to identify the requirement and suitability of the counsellor). Once the six sessions have been completed, an assessment will be made as to whether further counselling is required and, if thought beneficial, a further six sessions will be available. If, for whatever reason, a widow does not complete the six session course, she would have to make a very good case for further counselling if requested at a later date. All details will be strictly confidential.The method of access is through the local AWS teams who will conduct the initial assessment.
All visiting officers (VOs) should now be aware of this service and the local Army Welfare Service will liaise with them about the provision of counselling. The VO should inform the widow that bereavement counselling is available should that be necessary. Should a widow(er) wish to access counselling separately from the VO for any reason this can be achieved by approaching any local AWS team direct. AWS team locations and contact details can be identified by contacting the Army Welfare Information Service (AWIS) on 01980 615977/0800 0326443 or through www.army.mod.uk/wefare-support. AWIS is also there to help with any other query or question our people may have with regard to any welfare issue.
If there is any member of the Army Widows' Association who is unable to access Counselling from the AWS, please let us know, as we may be able to fund up to six sessions for you, or your child. Please either contact us through your regional rep, or via email info@armywidows.org.uk.