In August 2023, Professor Marcus Munafò, School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, released findings from research into the impact of the Military App.
"We conducted a preliminary online study to evaluate change in key indicators of social connection, loneliness and wellbeing before and after engagement with the Military App among ex-military members, by comparing repeated measures survey levels before and after engagement with the app. The results indicate clear evidence of improvement across five of the six indicators used to evaluate social connection, loneliness and wellbeing."
As part of the repeat survey study, at both before the app and and follow-up after using the app, we asked participants:
“Do you feel connected to your regimental family?”
“How valued do you feel by your regiment?”
“How easy is it to contact and connect with members of your military community?”
“How much opportunity is there to engage in in-person regimental events or activities?”
"How lonely or isolated have you felt over the last week?"
“How would you rate your sense of wellbeing over the last week?”.
Responses were scored on a 7-point scale and analysis against statistical models.
Loneliness and social isolation have increasingly been recognised as risk factors for poor mental health outcomes (Cacioppo et al., 2006). We know that the military population experience a unique set circumstances that require unique attention and so connecting with others who understand personal struggles and experiences is important.
To date, there has been a gap in military-specific spaces online, in which local communities can form and connect to target loneliness and promote wellbeing. The Military App aims to provide this space and this initial research is a credible and very positive indicator towards this goal.
The Military App team would like to thank all Fusilier veteran members that participated in the research study and the continued progressive leadership and vision of the RRF RHQ in striving to better connect and support their members.
A full copy of the research paper is available, please contact us.
