The Armed Forces Family Programme

What is it?  

Harnessing the power of sport and physical activity, this programme supports children and young people from armed forces families across Somerset to build confidence, boost wellbeing, develop resilience, and help young people regulate their emotions through regular, engaging sessions. All sessions are free to attend and offer at least one hour of positive engagement each week. 

The programme includes three core elements: 

  • 1:1 activity sessions - For ages 8-18, these are tailored to each young person's interests and delivered within their local community. 
  • Weekly club sessions - For ages 6-16, held every Wednesday from 4:30-5:30pm at Norton Manor Camp, Taunton (term time only). These club-style group sessions offer fun, structured activities in a safe and supportive environment. 
  • Activity sessions within primary and secondary schools.
Child on climbing wall

Additional opportunities:

We are a registered Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award Centre, with many years of experience supporting young people aged 13 and over to complete their award.

We also run a Young Leaders programme, giving young people the chance to build confidence, gain leadership experience, and develop skills such as communication and teamwork. These experiences can strengthen college, university, apprenticeship, and job applications, and we are happy to provide references to support their next steps.

1:1 Sessions

These sessions are designed around young people and families needs. Sessions take place in the local community and focus on activities young people enjoy, such as sport, getting outdoors or exploring new places.

If you've recently moved to the area, we can help your young person get to know their local community, build confidence and make new connections. This might include supporting them to join a local sports club or activity so they can continue doing something they enjoy.

Sessions can also involve visiting local places, such as the Quantock Hills, to help your young person feel more comfortable in their surroundings, become more independent and develop a sense of belonging.

Club Sessions

Before joining the club, each young person is given a stamp card. During sessions and through everyday examples, they work towards earning five stamps across these areas: resilience, teamwork, a positive mindset, trying new skills, and leadership.

Once they have earned all five stamps, they receive a £10 Amazon voucher to recognise their effort and encourage them to keep using these skills outside the club. Young people often use their voucher to buy things that support their wellbeing, such as sports equipment.

To celebrate their achievement, they also receive a personalised certificate and a miniature military-style medal. These rewards help build confidence, recognise progress, and give young people something to feel proud of.

School Sessions

Schools nominate young people to the programme for a range of reasons, most commonly to help them manage their emotions, feel listened to and valued, and give them a positive break from the challenges they may be facing.

Through fun activities and supportive relationships, young people have a safe space to build confidence, learn new ways to cope with challenges, and experience success. 

Whether you're interested in any of our free one-to-one support, school provisions or weekly clubs, contact Aaron and he will be happy to answer any questions:

Aaron McGough
Community Resilience Lead Mentor
T 07305101630
E AMcgough@sasp.co.uk

Aaron is a lead mentor on our Jump Start programme, supporting vulnerable young people aged 8 - 18.  Through physical activity and sport, this programme gives individuals life skills, aspirations and experiences they need to nurture stronger self esteem. Aaron has a focus around Taunton, Sedgemoor and Mendip and manages members of the team.