HighGround has received a generous grant from the Army Central Fund (ACF) to launch a new pilot programme for Army spouses and partners in 2026. The initiative responds to findings from the Armed Forces Continuous Attitude Survey, which highlights the career challenges faced by spouses as a significant factor in Army retention.

The new Rural Weeks for Army Spouses will offer tailored training, career coaching, site visits, networking, and wellbeing activities. Delivered with leading land-based colleges, the programme will help participants build confidence, gain practical knowledge, and explore flexible careers in the land-based sector.

HighGround CEO Jamie Crisp said: “We’ve seen how transformational our Rural Weeks are for serving personnel, and we’re excited to offer the same opportunity to spouses and partners. We are extremely grateful to the ACF for their continued support.”

ACF funding will also continue to support HighGround’s horticultural therapy programme at DMRC Stanford Hall—a clinically integrated rehabilitation service for those recovering from illness or injury.

Together, these programmes reflect HighGround’s commitment to improving wellbeing and widening career opportunities for the Army community through the green environment.

Caroline Crewe‑Read, Director of the Army Central Fund, said: “We are proud to support work that strengthens the physical, social, emotional, and occupational wellbeing of serving personnel and their families. We look forward to seeing what the new pilot teaches us about supporting Army spouses.”

For more information, visit www.highground‑uk.org or contact operations@highground‑uk.org .