Therapy program is delivering for little troopers
As we approach World Mental Health Day (10th October 2026), we’re shining a light on how our Therapy programme is delivering for little troopers. The initiative, which launched at the end of last year, provides military specific therapy to individual little troopers and groups.
Louise, founder of our charity said, “This programme is so important. My own daughter went through various periods in her military childhood where her wellbeing suffered. I knew that tailored therapeutic support would have helped her navigate the reality of having her dad away repeatedly, alongside the many moves that meant constant changes in school environments and friendships. I wanted military children to have access to something created for them – something understanding, tailored and lasting.”
Following a small pilot, the therapy programme was relaunched thanks to funding from the National Lottery. Our first sessions were delivered in February and in just nine months, we have put 99 children in touch with therapists across the country.
Group Therapy
In addition to the individual therapy sessions, we offer group sessions. This supportive programme provides a safe, engaging space to connect with others, share experiences and explore topics linked to military life. Each group, of 8-10 military children will receive three in-person sessions delivered by a qualified Broad Horizons therapist.
Therapists can visit youth clubs, cadet units, community centres, lunch time/after-school clubs or other community venues to run the workshops.
How do I get support?
You can make a referral to our Therapy programme by Little Troopers Therapy Programme Page on our website.
How can I support my little troopers at home?
Louise adds, “As a parent of a little trooper, I just wanted someone to help me feel empowered to support my daughter. In addition to our therapy programme, we have lots of resources online, that you can use now.”
X-ray of feelings – If your children are struggling emotionally and you are not sure how to help them? Have a look at our X-Ray of feelings collection. Six beautifully illustrated pictures uncover some of the thoughts and feelings your children might be experiencing when facing some military life situations. Many families have found them a great visual aid to help their children open up and talk.
Little Troopers Therapy videos – Our parent video series is also freely available online. In each video, qualified therapists cover information, practical advice, and downloadable activity sheets covering deployment, moving home, and nurturing resilience.
Affirmation cards – Affirmations are short phrases or words that we can repeat to ourselves. We’ve put together a downloadable pack of beautifully illustrated cards that you can use throughout the day. They can help lift your mood or put you in a more positive frame of mind. If deployment is proving tough, you could tuck one into your child’s school or lunch bag.
“I hope that some of these help you and your little troopers.” Says Louise, “Please do not forget to look after yourself as well. Military life is not easy – time at home single parenting is hard! If you need five minutes peace, our tip is to print out a Crafty Little Troopers colouring sheet for your children, make a cuppa and breathe.”
