Throughout United Kingdom there is a steadily increasing number of drop-in centres where any member of the Armed Forces community, including the merchant navy and fishing fleet and their families, may go for help and advice, or simply to relax over a cuppa with like-minded comrades. All drop-ins extend a warm welcome with refreshments, some offer general welfare support, such as financial and employment advice, some have activities to promote wellbeing and some provide access to mental health support. This takes place routinely under one roof, at the same time and in an informal environment. ASDIC aims to link all these drop-ins together so they can offer each other mutual support and make them more accessible to those seeking help.
Drop-ins vary hugely in their modus operandi and no two operate in exactly the same way: some are very small, some more like a one-stop-shop, but all serve the same overall purpose of helping the ex-military community in need. ASDIC drop-ins are open at least once a month and will be supported by representatives of at least two established organisations (known as delivery partners), such as SSAFA, the Royal British Legion or other recognised service charities, and depending on their size and locality they will work alongside a selection of health and welfare organisations such as the NHS, Citizens’ Advice Bureau, legal, financial or local council services,. There are over 80 drop-ins operating in UK at present and the number joining ASDIC is steadily increasing.
