Battle Back announces it's mission statement

Battle Back

Identify, facilitate and encourage adaptive Adventurous Training (AT) and Sport opportunities for wounded Service personnel.

Introduction

Battle Back is a new Tri-Service initiative which aims to improve and formalise the use of AT and Sport in the aftercare of wounded Service personnel in order to aid their rehabilitation and return to an active life.

It was endorsed by the Service Personnel Executive Group (SPEG) on 20 Mar 08. The Army have taken the lead on behalf of Defence, with Headquarters Land Forces (HQ LF) resourcing a co-ordination office in the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC) Headley Court from Jul 08.

Background

When first faced with the reality of a disability, many individuals experience a loss of confidence, depression, and believe that their active lives have ended. The sudden, traumatic change in physical ability makes them vulnerable to psychological and emotional stress which can alienate them from their friends and family.

The use of Sport or outdoor activities has a proven track record to aid successful physical and psychological rehabilitation, providing the foundation for the development of a positive self-image and outlook on life. AT and Sport offer significant opportunities during the latter stages of rehabilitation and beyond to aid re-integration and confidence building for wounded Service personnel.

Role

Battle Back will:

Identify, facilitate and encourage adaptive AT and Sport opportunities for wounded Service personnel
Develop and strengthen relationships with all relevant Service charities and disabled National Governing Bodies, facilitating appropriate advice to wounded Service personnel and their families regarding all AT and Sport activities
Identify talented disabled Service personnel and facilitate access to elite sporting opportunities and challenging Level 3 AT expeditions
Advertise and promote adaptive AT and Sport opportunities both internally to wounded individuals and the chain of command, and externally to national media, charities etc
Develop and maintain an in depth understanding of disabled Defence policy, and subsequently inform/advise policymakers in relation to AT and Sport activities as appropriate

The British Antarctic Microlight Expedition (BAME) is a fully integrated expedition to the South Pole. The expedition aims to:

· Be the first to fly a flexwing microlight in Antarctica;
· Be the first to fly a microlight to the South Pole;
· Be the first to fly a microlight over Mount Vinson.

BAME is a Joint Services 'Battle Back' Expedition and a tremendous undertaking - Flying open cockpit aircraft at below -30 Degrees C in the world most hostile environment. The expedtion will allow injured service personnel to raise awareness of Battle Back and hopefully raise fund for the charities that have helped them in rehabilitation - Help for Heroes and The Royal British Legion.