Invitation to participate in a study of the lived experiences of

UK veterans from ethnic minority background

The Office for Veterans' Affairs has commissioned the Institute for Employment Research at the University of Warwick to explore the lived experiences of UK veterans from ethnic minority backgrounds. The project will provide an opportunity for veterans from ethnic minority backgrounds to make their experiences, needs and aspirations known to those who can provide support and bring about the changes necessary to ensure that veterans are not disadvantaged either by their Service or by their ethnic background. The research involves an evidence review, analysis of the Census of Population 2021, interviews with those providing services that support veterans, particularly those from ethnic minority backgrounds, plus a survey and interviews with veterans from ethnic minority backgrounds.

As part of study, we would like to invite you to participate in an interview. The aim of this interview is to gather information:

• Current support and services offered to veterans particularly those that cater specifically to the needs of veterans from ethnic minority backgrounds and the challenges to delivering that support;
• The types of support requested and most useful, plus any gaps in current services and support;
• The particular challenges faced by veterans from ethnic minority backgrounds in making the transition to civilian life;
• Future services, policies and actions that would benefit veterans from ethnic minority backgrounds.

This interview will take around 45 minutes, will be conducted remotely and at a convenient time.

Please be assured that all information collected will be treated in the strictest confidence and the anonymity of you and your organisation is guaranteed in any publications. Please find attached an information leaflet with further details and a letter of support from Dr Nikil Patel at the Office for Veterans' AffairsLink opens in a new window.

I look forward to hearing from you soon and please do not hesitate to contact us if you need any further information.

Thank you in advance for your help with this study.

Yours faithfully

Gaby Atfield and the research team

Telephone: +44(0)24 76 524127

Email: Stefanie.Poole@warwick.ac.uk

Project Team:

Gaby Atfield (Principal Investigator)

Beate Baldauf

Emily Erickson

David Owen

Andreana Glendinning

Project Duration:

April 2022 - February 2023

Funder:

Link opens in a new window

Part of the Cabinet OfficeLink opens in a new window