Sports Habilitation
Veteran Pathways
Sport is a proven and potent medium for confidence building. Adaptive sport and access to new challenges enables those with disabilities to level with those without, in a way that few other activities can.
The Veteran Ski-Habilitation Week
For Veterans, the transition to civilian life is often tough. Those with physical or mental health issues face tough challenges and can become isolated and struggle alone. Our Ski-habilitation week offers a transformative break to help start a new phase in the transition to civilian life, and a relationship with SWV, as well as kick-starting the recovery process.
How it works - Every year, 25 Veterans from the UK are selected to go to Klosters, in Switzerland. As well as skiing with qualified adaptive ski instructors, the trip provides the chance to discuss pain management needs and career interests with SWV’s coordinators. This ensures every Veteran can receive further support and bespoke mentoring following the trip. There is also a valuable opportunity to share experiences with other wounded Veterans, which often proves to be invaluable, helping Veterans to feel less alone in their battles and ongoing challenges that they face.
Medical professionals are also on hand during the trip. This is a dedicated team on site to help the Veterans - these include a GP and Sports Medicine Specialist, a Physiotherapist, an Osteopath, a Sports Massage Therapist and a Psychologist. In addition to medical clinics, there are evening sessions in Relaxation, Mindfulness and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). After the week, each Veteran is introduced to their own Mentor, a person who they can turn to, to provide guidance and support throughout the ongoing recovery process.
Learn more about how a mentor could help you.
Joining The Programme
Ski Week 2024 has already taken place, but applications for 2025 are already open, so please get in touch.
Next year's trip will run from 17th March to 23rd March 2025. (Buddies will travel out on 16th March)
Due to the Swiss travel requirements, if Covid-19 restrictions are re-introduced then to join us on the Ski Week you will need to have been triple vaccinated against Covid-19.
Register your interest in the Ski Week by completing the application form
Ski Buddies
Our Ski-habilitation Week would not be possible without volunteer Ski Buddies, who help the Veterans both on and off the slopes. Each year, 20 individuals of all ages and backgrounds are selected and raise at least £2,000 each to cover their costs and a donation to SWV. The Ski Buddies are an important aspect to this special week, as well as being on hand to support the Veterans making their week easier, they are a friendly listening ear and help Veterans access further support where needed.
Learn more about being a Ski Buddy
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The Ocean Challenge
- for Armed Forces Veterans
This is a fantastic opportunity for Veterans to learn or improve on their individual sailing skills. In addition, for those new to SWV we offer you the opportunity of a mentoring scheme and a network for those looking to get back into employment, as well as access to the SWV Pain Management Pathway if required.
Application criteria:
Proof of service (if selected for interview)
Non-serving veterans
Open to Tri-Service
How much will it cost?
The only cost to you is the travel from home to Gosport, near Portsmouth. The sailing trip is paid for by SWV's fundraising activities. The week will include all meals, sailing training and entry to the Round the Island Race. You will need to come with suitable clothing for sailing, but wet weather gear and life jackets will be provided. You will also need to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. Your only expenses will be evening refreshments.
Do you have to be a novice sailor?
No experience is necessary.
What is the daily schedule?
A typical day looks like this:
0700 - Breakfast
0900 - Sailing training
1530 - Return to a port – this will be different each day.
1900 - BBQs, suppers and other evening activities.
Accommodation is on board the yachts. On the Friday we will have a small regatta between our own boats and on the weekend will take part in the famous Round the Island Race!
I am prescribed medication, is this problem?
No, if you are responsible for your medication at home you will easily be able to cope on the trip.
I am not at a very high standard of fitness, does this matter?
No, but we would recommend that you partake in a basic fitness regime so that you are able to get the most out of this week.
To apply, register your interest here
The Ocean Challenge 2024 will run from 9th - 16th June, taking part in the Round The Island Race on Saturday 15th June.
For further information
Email: martinb@supportingwoundedveterans.com
Phone: 07990 552718
