A deliberately small event hosted in Portsmouth by Scotty’s has helped bereaved military children and their families build confidence, make connections and feel a renewed sense of belonging.
Held at The Village Hotel on Saturday 28 June, the event was part of Scotty’s On Tour – an addition to the charity’s events programme for 2025. Designed to reduce isolation and increase accessibility, the tour brings Scotty’s to different regions of the UK, creating welcoming environments for bereaved British Armed Forces families to come together.
17 children and young people attended the event, with a total of 30 guests including their wider families of parents, stepparents, half-siblings and grandparents – reflecting Scotty’s inclusive approach to supporting the whole family. A representative from Army Widows’ Foundation also attended.
Its low-key format was especially designed to support those who may find larger events daunting – including families with SEND needs – and to help build confidence in attending future gatherings.
The atmosphere was relaxed, friendly and fun thanks to games from entertainers Sharky & George, with a sensory room available for quieter moments.
One Scotty Parent said:
“Everyone was so friendly, adults and children, and I most enjoyed my usually shy little man dancing and having fun from start to finish.”
Another reflected:
“I always enjoy having a place to go where everyone knows why we are there – it’s not taboo, and fun for the children whilst still acknowledging their loss.”
Following the event, 100% of families who responded to a questionnaire said they were pleased they attended and that they met and spoke with other bereaved military families. 86% said they hoped to stay in touch with families they’d met – demonstrating the power of peer connection and lasting impact of events.
Although most families had been to previous Scotty’s events, 14% of those who filled in feedback were attending for the first time – a key goal of the Scotty’s On Tour series, which aims to make events feel accessible to those who might not otherwise take that first step.
Nikki Scott, founder of Scotty’s Little Soldiers, said:
“At Scotty’s, we host big events, but the idea of Scotty’s On Tour is to give bereaved military families the opportunity to attend small events with people who live in their region. It’s less daunting, not as far to travel and friendships are easier to continue after the event – they’re about confidence, comfort, and connection. Everyone’s welcome!”
Nikki added:
“One of my favourite moments was watching our older members encouraging our younger ones – I’ll never get tired of those special moments of connection between our members.”
All surveyed families said the event improved their confidence to attend future Scotty’s events, with 86% reporting a particularly strong sense of belonging.
Following successful stops in Bristol and Portsmouth, Scotty’s On Tour will head to Newcastle later this month, where the charity hopes to welcome bereaved military families in the region.
So far this year, Scotty’s has supported over 760 bereaved military children and young people. Scotty’s estimates that each year 2,100 children are newly bereaved of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces. The charity wants to support these children and has a long-term goal of supporting over 1,000 young people annually by 2030.
Thanks to funding from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, Invictus Games Foundation, Thrive Together and Veterans Support for supporting Scotty’s SMILES Programme, which includes events like this.
To find out more about Scotty’s Little Soldiers, visit: www.scottyslittlesoldiers.co.uk
