The START Programme
START is Scotty's single point of contact for those who have experienced a military-connected bereavement. Our caseworkers can help you navigate the full landscape of entitlements, services and support available, whether that’s from us at Scotty’s or from other organisations. Not sure where to go? START here.
What START offers
It is not a signposting service, it's an active, expert, relationship-based navigation service, served by people who understand the military community.
- A single point of contact for anyone who has experienced a military-connected bereavement to start their journey. Not sure? Just ask.
- Tell your story once and we’ll make sure you don’t have to repeat it every time you need some help.
- Expert guidance, or referrals to the right experts, on military pensions, compensation, housing entitlements, financial support, and benefits.
- Active casework, we’ll make calls on your behalf.
- Entitlements navigation across the full landscape of civilian charitable, statutory, and voluntary support. It’s a maze, let us do the work for you.
- Advocacy where families face unfair treatment, incorrect guidance, or systemic barriers.
- Accessible by phone and online, available at any time in your bereavement journey.
To get support and access our START programme, join our community or email welcome@scottys.org.uk
Of military bereaved respondents were responsible for death admin at the most difficult time.
Found death admin difficult or very difficult.
Navigated this admin alone
Source: Scotty's Bereaved Military Community Insights Report 2025
Our people
Meet the START Team
Ashlee
Head of START
I'm dedicated to developing and delivering the START Programme. Providing specialist navigation and holistic support to the bereaved military community, whether that be regarding pensions, housing, or finding that sense of belonging/community. Supporting our community for as long as needed, at any point of their journey.
Sonia
START Caseworker
Through the START Programme, I help bereaved military families connect with a supportive shared community, provide tailored information, advice, guidance (IAG) and offer open-ended support to help navigate and access entitlements.
If you need help with navigating your entitlements please reach out to our START team today. If you'd like to learn more, why not join the community.
Join the
Community.
If you've been affected by a military-connected bereavement, the Scotty's community is here for you. Join the community and get involved as much or as little as you want.
What you'll get
- A monthly email, tailored to you
- Help navigating your entitlements
- Access to bereavement support
- Invitations to events and webinars
- Our annual magazine by post
- Care packages on anniversaries and difficult dates
- And lots more
Phone / WhatsApp
0800 092 8571
07392 868291
welcome@scottyslittlesoldiers.co.uk
Need help now?
Call our team directly or dial 999 in an emergency. You don't need to join first to get support.
Join the
community
Step 1 of 5Which best describes you?
By clicking “Join” you agree to our terms and for Scotty's to be in touch about the support available to you. You can leave the community at any time.