AFF Germany - How we have helped
AFF helps many families locally with different issues but for confidentiality reasons we cannot give details of them all.
Housing
AFF Germany has many enquiries regarding housing varying from the allocation process to the quality of accommodation, here is one way in which AFF (G) has helped a family recently:
"The Army Families Federation has been a considerable help to us. At the time of turning to AFF, we had previously been in touch with our Unit Welfare Office and had attempted to liaise with the HCSO. We struggled for 18 months to get our case across to both departments, thus leaving us feeling very isolated, not to mention frustrated.
Until it was suggested that we approach AFF, we had no idea that they were an organisation that are here to listen and help if they can. We scheduled a meeting with an AFF representative who listened intently to our situation whilst making copious notes. She did not promise anything unrealistic, other than the assurance that she would assist us where possible. For the first time in a long time - we saw a glimmer of hope.
The representative addressed our case with vigour and professionalism. They maintained contact with us throughout which meant we were not kept in the dark. Within three weeks, we received the news that we were to be moved somewhere more suitable.
The mere fact that AFF took time to listen and allow us to explain our circumstances was a relief in itself because prior to this, no-one else would afford us that courtesy. That alone left us feeling terribly disheartened as a family.
We cannot praise or thank AFF enough for what they have done for us. We now enjoy a happier, better quality of life and it’s all thanks to the Army Families Federation."
Clarification of Information
AFF often hears from families who are concerned about some information they have heard on the grapevine, here is one example of how AFF Germany can help ensure accurate information in disseminated to families:
The dental centre reduced their dental service for families before the recent deployment to give priority treatment to the soldiers due to deploy on Herick 15. Information was incorrectly passed around the station that there would be no provision for families except for emergencies appointments. This quickly hit the airwaves and AFF received complaints from families who were unhappy with the disruption to the dental service.
AFF raised the families’ concerns to the senior dental officer who confirmed this was not accurate information. All units in the station where asked to give their families the correct information, which was: Dental services were still available for all patients needing emergency treatment those receiving on going treatment and that this was only a temporary reduction in service due to our soldiers needing their dental checks before deployment. Families were happy with the information received and pleased to hear that the reduction in service was only temporary.
Urgent housing moves
Thankfully, it is not a regular occurrence that families need to be moved urgently, however when the need arises and help isn’t forthcoming, AFF can help to influence the chain of command:
One AFF Germany Co-ordinator helped to get a family moved after a serious assault by a neighbour. The Army was happy to leave the family in the house after an unprovoked attack. The family were living in absolute fear. They had asked their Unit Welfare Officer and RMP to help but to no avail. The family came to AFF, the issue was highlighted to the chain of command and the family were moved the following week. Had AFF not helped, the family would still be living in terror.
