Supporting Military Veterans: Insights from volunteers in North East England

Abstract

The aim of this research was to identify motivations to volunteer as caseworkers with the United Kingdom based tri-service military charity, The Soldiers', Sailors', and Airmen's Families Association (SSAFA). The research utilised a focus group and an online selfcompletion questionnaire administered to all active caseworkers across North East England. Respondents were almost three-quarters male, two-thirds over 65, and retired; almost all respondents reported their ethnicity as White British. Previous military service, or colleagues serving in the military, is a strong factor in attracting people to volunteer. Motivations for volunteering as caseworkers were focused on achieving emotional and altruistic goals, with many respondents identifying how they donated significant hours, and the majority wanting to use their existing knowledge and experience. The findings from the research are limited to the sample population and should be viewed as an evidence-based insight of the voluntary role. The study should inform future research and practice for the recruitment of SSAFA volunteer caseworkers.