Operation Calm: Supporting Wellbeing Through Holistic and Collaborative Care
Operation Calm is a Community Interest Company dedicated to improving the wellbeing of veterans, homeless veterans, individuals in deprived areas, and those in the criminal justice system. We provide holistic therapies, wellbeing hubs, and online support to help people manage stress, improve mental health, and rebuild stability. Our services include massage therapy, reflexology, sound baths, and wellbeing talks, delivered through community pop-ups, one-to-one therapies, and virtual sessions via The Online Retreat.
We aim to collaborate with charities, local authorities, and support organisations to ensure those in need can access a full spectrum of services. Our work is funded through grants, sponsorship, and The Office Retreat, a corporate wellbeing initiative that reinvests profits into our community projects.
Veterans Wellbeing Hubs
Operation Calm is committed to improving the wellbeing of veterans, homeless veterans, and their families. We run pop-up wellbeing hubs in military and veteran-rich communities, offering holistic therapies, reflexology, sound baths, and wellbeing talks designed to relieve stress and promote recovery. These hubs also provide a space for veterans to connect with peers and access support services. For those unable to attend, we offer one-to-one therapies at home.
Collaboration for Greater Impact:
We aim to collaborate with military charities, mental health services, and employment organisations to ensure veterans receive holistic and practical support. By working together with agencies focused on transition support and mental health, we can enhance long-term wellbeing and social reintegration.
Why This Matters:
50% of veterans experience mental health challenges, with PTSD, anxiety, and depression being common. Providing direct access to wellbeing services as part of a wider support network can significantly improve veterans quality of life.
Addressing Wellbeing in Deprived Areas
Socioeconomic deprivation has a significant impact on physical and mental health. Stress, financial instability, and lack of access to wellbeing services contribute to increased anxiety and long-term health conditions. Operation Calm brings holistic therapies and wellbeing hubs to deprived communities to help reduce these inequalities.
Collaboration for Impact:
We aim to work with local councils, social prescribing networks, and charities supporting individuals in deprived areas. By integrating our wellbeing services with food banks, community centres, and housing support services, we can help people manage stress and improve their overall health.
The Need for Intervention:
Only 36.9% of females and 38.7% of males in the most deprived areas report being in very good health, compared to over 55% in the least deprived areas. Stress and poor wellbeing are directly linked to worsening health outcomes. Through partnerships and targeted interventions, we aim to break this cycle.
Combating Homelessness
Veterans and individuals experiencing homelessness often face severe mental and physical health challenges. We provide targeted wellbeing interventions, helping to reduce stress, improve emotional resilience, and support recovery.
Partnering for Change:
We aim to collaborate with homelessness charities, housing providers, and outreach organisations to deliver therapies in shelters and supported accommodation. By integrating wellbeing services into wider support programmes, we can provide practical and emotional support to those experiencing homelessness.
Why This Matters:
Veterans account for approximately 6% of the homeless population. Many struggle with PTSD and other mental health conditions, making holistic wellbeing interventions a key part of rehabilitation and recovery.
Supporting Offenders and Rehabilitation
Veterans in the criminal justice system often face complex challenges, including PTSD, substance misuse, and difficulties adjusting to civilian life. Operation Calm provides wellbeing support to aid rehabilitation and reduce reoffending.
Collaboration for Rehabilitation:
We aim to work with prison rehabilitation programmes and support organisations to integrate holistic therapies into offender support services. By providing stress management, relaxation techniques, and wellbeing workshops, we can contribute to positive rehabilitation outcomes.
The Bigger Picture:
Around 4% of the UK prison population are veterans. Providing wellbeing support as part of the rehabilitation process can improve mental health, aid reintegration, and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
Accessible Online Wellbeing Resources
To ensure all veterans regardless of location, access our services, we offer online wellbeing webinars through The Online Retreat. This provides virtual wellbeing talks and workshops, extending our support network to those who may not be able to access in-person services.
Strengthening Our Network:
We aim to collaborate with digital health services and veteran support organisations to ensure our online wellbeing resources reach those who need them most.
Sustaining Impact Through Corporate Wellbeing Initiatives
Through The Office Retreat, we offer wellbeing programmes to organisations, generating additional funds that are reinvested into the CIC. This initiative helps sustain our mission while creating sponsorship opportunities and corporate partnerships to further our work.
Partnering for Growth:
We seek sponsorship and corporate partnerships to ensure financial sustainability while expanding our impact. By engaging businesses with a commitment to social responsibility, we can continue to fund vital wellbeing services for those in need.
Conclusion
Operation Calm is committed to enhancing wellbeing for veterans, homeless individuals, people in deprived areas, and those in the criminal justice system. By delivering holistic therapies and working in partnership with charities, organisations, and corporate sponsors, we ensure that those who need support can access it in a meaningful and sustainable way.
