Backing those who serve: University launches new civic initiative

With thousands of service children currently across the UK, it is more important than ever to recognise, support and improve educational outcomes for members of the Armed Forces, veterans, blue-light professionals and their families. 

Led by David Mather, Associate Head of School (Students) in the School of Education, Languages and Linguistics at the University of Portsmouth, We See You, a civic initiative has launched to support service members, veterans, emergency service staff, and their families by acknowledging their experiences and providing safe, welcoming environments. 

The initiative, which reflects the Strategic Defence Review 2025, is centred on academic research, strong partnerships with the Armed Forces, and the University’s role as a civic institution in a naval city.  

It responds to the needs of Portsmouth’s large community of veterans and service families whilst aiming to reduce the education gap faced by service children and people from military and blue-light backgrounds. 

David Mather, from the University’s School of Humanities and Social Sciences, said: “This initiative reflects our commitment to acknowledging the lived experiences of service members and their families, creating safe and supportive environments, and challenging the stereotypes of stoicism and self-reliance that may do them a disservice. 

“This is truly a collaborative effort to strengthen understanding, support, and educational outcomes for service-connected students and their communities.” 

We See You recognises that the transition from service life to civilian life can be challenging, not only for those leaving the Armed Forces, but also for civilians who may misunderstand or be unaware of the complexities of service-connected experiences. 

“This initiative includes new training for teacher-education students, university colleagues, and school and college partners to improve understanding of the service community and reduce misconceptions,” added David. “While the University already does extensive work in this area, this approach is unique, bringing greater visibility and cohesion to those efforts.” 

The University is hosting a networking event to mark the launch of this new initiative on Wednesday 28 January 2026 at the Future Technology Centre (FTC), bringing together a civic conversation on how Portsmouth can support Armed Forces, veteran and blue-light learners to feel seen and understood. 

Tickets are free and places can be booked via Eventbrite.