Every second counts: applying technology to help veterans in crisis

The Rifles is the largest infantry regiment in the British Army and has a storied history. Its battalions and their antecedents carry battle honours that date to the 17th century, and modern-day Riflemen have been sustaining high operational tempos over the past two decades with regular deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and beyond.  

It is a sobering fact that The Rifles experienced proportionally the highest casualty rate of any regiment during the conflict in Afghanistan, with 55 soldiers killed and 258 wounded. Many Riflemen struggle after leaving the army, with physical and mental health issues that stem from their service or due the challenge of adjusting to civilian life.    

To support RIFLES veterans and their families, the Always a Rifleman Programme (AARP), which is part of The Rifles Benevolent Trust, was established in August 2021 by RIFLES Regimental Headquarters.  

The programme has the sole purpose of creating a network of volunteers who can swiftly reach veterans and their dependants through a dedicated service that is available 24/7. This service aims to have a volunteer at the doorstep of a veteran in crisis within one hour of notification.

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