The armed forces: information for young people
About this page
This page is for young people who are thinking about joining the armed forces, those who have already joined, or who just want more information. It may also be useful to young people’s families and teachers. All the information is about the UK, as CRIN’s work on the military recruitment of under-18s has focused on this country. If you want more information please contact us.
Are you a current or former member of the armed forces looking for information and advice?
Centre for Military Justice Helpline - This free helpline provides initial advice and information on a wide variety of topics. If they cannot help, they aim to direct you to someone who can. The helpline is 0203 848 6820, or if you prefer to email you can contact information@centreformilitaryjustice.org.uk.
Salute Her - A support service specifically for girls/women personnel and veterans, with expertise in helping those who’ve suffered sexual trauma in the armed forces. You can contact Paula by email (paula@forward-assist.com), landline (01912 504877) or mobile (07876 787238).
Service Complaints Ombudsman for the Armed Forces - The Ombudsman provides independent and impartial oversight of the Service complaints system for members of the UK Armed Forces. They work to ensure that complaints are handled properly and treated fairly.
Are you thinking about joining the armed forces?
Before You Sign Up - A website for young people who are thinking of joining the British army, and for their parents. It is also for soldiers who are thinking of leaving the army. The purpose is to provide balanced information about the army, so that you can make the choice that's best for you.
Soldiers at 16 - A short booklet addressing common myths about joining the army under the age of 18.
Other resources
The Rhyming Guide to Joining the Army - An animated poem commissioned by CRIN to encourage critical thinking about armed forces recruitment and its relationship to human rights. Schools can use this lesson plan to explore the poem.
War School - A film about the how the UK armed forces interact with children and young people. It features many veterans talking about their experiences of serving in the armed forces. Take their quiz about the UK military here.
Veterans for Peace UK - An organisation of veterans who give talks to schools and other audiences about what life in the military is like. See one of their members talking about his experience of being a soldier in The Making of a Modern British Solider (YouTube).