Webinar #4 in the TGTL Webinar series is focused on physical and mental health and wellbeing. We are highlighting three organisations and topics, however there is a significant amount of online resources available to all reservists that will be linked with the recording of this event.

1. Defence Breastfeeding Network (DBN). Research indicates that breastfeeding for 10 months or more reduces the risk of breast cancer in nursing mothers and is beneficial to the child’s health and development. Enabling women to continue serving in those critical months is key to supporting and retaining valuable and experienced personnel. As we mark International Women’s Day on 8 Mar, Cpl Natasha Day MBE will provide an introduction to the organisation, current policy with a focus on inclusion of Reserves, how to manage military commitment whilst breastfeeding (especially time away on training/exercises) and potential funding for Reserve spaces where there is significant throughput of female soldiers/staff.

2. Unacceptable Behaviours (UB). Maintaining a healthy and safe working environment that enables everyone to thrive in their roles is vitally important to individuals and units. It contributes to both the moral and physical components of military effectiveness. The UB team will highlight some key areas that they cover, from unit climate assessments and the Speak Out helpline, to tackling issues of sexual and alcohol abuse, and providing mediation support through Dispute Resolution Support Services (DRSS) that sit outside the chain of command.

3. Mental Health & the Headspace App. Maj Tracey Doree, Army SO2 Health Promotion at SJC, will signpost to resources available on Defence Connect for all reservists and Sharepoint for unit representatives, and then cover specific details of the Headspace free subscription and a short brief on what the Headspace App can offer.