Keeping in contact - your questions answered
When your son or daughter joins the Army, you'll no doubt be very proud of them. Of course, you may also be concerned about their welfare, especially if they are leaving home for the first time. However, you can rest assured that the Army makes the wellbeing of its recruits and officer cadets a top priority and gives them every opportunity to stay in touch with loved ones. In case you still have any doubts, here are some common queries we hear from parents and guardians…and their answers.
How often can my child come home?
During basic training, Recruits or Officer Cadets usually go home once for a long weekend at the end of week five or six. Recruits then have a period of leave (up to two weeks) at the end of Phase 1 before moving on to Phase 2 training. Duties and training permitting, there is more freedom to go home at weekends during Phase 2 training. Soldiers get leave during and after Phase 2 training before their first posting. For Officer Cadets, Phase 1 training at Sandhurst lasts 11 months with two periods of two-weeks' leave at the end of each term.
How can I contact them?
When your son or daughter joins the Army, one of the pieces of kit we encourage them to bring is a mobile phone. During the evenings, phone calls home are not just tolerated; they are positively encouraged. Regular contact with home can really help recruits and cadets to overcome their culture shock of leaving home and joining up. Be prepared though, it can sometimes be quite tough being at the other end of the call, particularly if homesickness is kicking in.
Can I visit my child during training?
Visiting is not encouraged during basic training because of the demands of the timetable. Parents could visit during the long weekend that recruits get in week five or six, but the Army cannot provide accommodation, and in reality most recruits choose to go home during this period. During Phase 2 training, there tends to be more freedom at weekends if parents want to visit but, once again, the Army cannot provide accommodation.
Can I contact my child in an emergency?
Yes, parents are provided with an emergency number to call for the recruit's training regiment or unit. There are payphones around Army camps and we encourage recruits to bring a mobile phone to call family and friends in the evening.
What happens if recruits feel bullied or discriminated against?
The Army does not tolerate bullying, discrimination or harassment of any kind. There are both informal and formal procedures in place to deal with such complaints as well as a confidential support line. A number of people are also on hand to offer welfare support, including the Unit Welfare Officer and the Padre, who can help with personal and spiritual issues.