Scotty’s Little Soldiers will take its work supporting bereaved military children onto the international stage this October, as the charity attends the Canadian Institute for Military and Veteran Health Research (CIMVHR) Forum 2025 in Ottawa, Ontario.
The annual CIMVHR Forum brings together international thought leaders to share knowledge, collaborate, and showcase research that enhances the health and wellbeing of military personnel, Veterans, public safety personnel and their families.
At this year’s Forum, Dr Faye Acton, from Anglia Ruskin University’s Veterans and Families Institute for Military Social Research (VFI), will present on an ongoing research project with Scotty’s. The study explores how being part of a military-specific charity shapes a bereaved child or young person’s sense of identity and belonging – and highlights the vital role that tailored bereavement support plays in helping them feel understood, less isolated, and better able to thrive.
Scotty’s Founder Nikki Scott will attend the Forum alongside four members of Scotty’s Council – a group of Scotty’s beneficiaries who provide insight, ideas and help guide the direction of the charity. Together, Nikki and the young adults will ensure that the voices of bereaved military young people are represented at this important international event.
Nikki Scott said:
“We’re proud that the voices of our bereaved military children will be heard at CIMVHR Forum 2025, and that Scotty’s work is part of this important international conversation. By sharing our experiences and research, we hope to influence how bereaved military children and young people are supported not just in the UK, but across the world. We are also grateful for the opportunity to learn about what’s happening in other countries to support bereaved military families.”
For more about CIMVHR Forum 2025 – CIMVHR Forum 2025 – October 20-22, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario
This work forms part of Scotty’s STRIDES Programme, which supports the education and development of bereaved military children and young people. The STRIDES Programme is principally funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust and the Lloyd’s Patriotic Fund, and Scotty’s would like to thank them for their generous support in making this possible.
