Community Support Handbook
Conclusions
The chain of command is central to the provision of Service community support, which, for reasons of operational effectiveness, must also be accessible to the dependants of serving personnel. In recognition that some people may want to seek help outside their chain of command and may have complex problems, specialist staffs such as OC PMS, Chaplains and SMOs also have an important role to play. Furthermore, the introduction of an enhanced, publicly funded SSAFA-Forces Help Social Work Service, to augment station resources, has proved successful and SSAFA-Forces Help P&FSWs are playing a vital role in supporting the RAF community. The Services' adoption of the welfare Community Support Model has signalled an acceptance of the 'critical connection' that exists between the whole RAF community and its operational effectiveness. The RAF is now at the leading edge of this important initiative, which represents a radical change in support for the RAF Community. The ultimate aim is to build community structures that are compatible with and supportive of the RAF's unique lifestyle. The Community Development Worker (CDW) initiative, which will establish professionally qualified CDWs on all major RAF stns, will ensure that the quality of life and general well-being of the RAF Community is enhanced. Furthermore, the provision of effective communication to all members of the RAF Community is essential and the agreement to the provision of this website.
Community support facilities such as HIVEs, CVS, RELATE contracts and CABs are already in place to varying degrees at many stations throughout the RAF. Because they have been established independently and are partly driven by the enthusiasm of station staffs and spouses, some stations have a number of these facilities, while others have few. These community support facilities can quickly become essential to the smooth and efficient running of a station and make a significant impact on the life of that station's community and the morale of those people living and working within its confines. If you have any worries that could adversely affect your performance at work you must seek professional help.
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