Since May 2025, the newly established RN FPS Deployed Asset Team (DAT), formerly known as the Deployed Support Team, has hit the ground running, providing dedicated welfare support to personnel deployed across the globe. In just a few months the team has made a tangible impact, engaging with commands, conducting welfare checks and ensuring personnel know that support is available wherever they serve.
The team comprises of a Lt Cdr, WO2, CPO, three POs and one recently joined RM SGT. All bringing a wealth of experience and commitment to the delivery of welfare services in the deployed environment. The primary aim is to ensure that deployed personnel maintain accessible, consistent support wherever the Royal Navy operates.
One team member embarked on HMS Prince of Wales April-November 25 as part of the Carrier Strike Group (CSG), providing a continual welfare support presence at sea. In August 25 the CPO and Lt Cdr undertook a nine-day visit to Japan (someone had to do it!). This allowed engagement with Commands from various platforms, and the opportunity to conduct the all-important welfare check and supervision with the embarked PWLS welfare worker, who would only allow us onboard after crossing his palm with Tetley T bags, Haribo and some soap! It also allowed him a period of R&R. Work aside, Japan is a beautiful country to explore, and the complex train system lived up to its efficient reputation (though there may have been a moment of uncertainty involving the wrong train and subsequent wrong destination). This visit provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen coordination and enhance the understanding of welfare delivery across the Task Group.
In September 25, two members of the team visited HMS SPEY in Singapore where they conducted welfare walk-ins, delivered presentations and engaged directly with the Ships Company and Command Team. It was confirmed that despite Singapore being known as the Lion City – there were no lions onboard only Sailors – phew!. They were also able to meet up with the embarked caseworker from PWLS during this visit. The visit enabled the team to gain first hand insight into the welfare needs of deployed personnel, who can at times feel forgotten about, whilst reinforcing the Royal Navy’s commitment to their wellbeing. The Commanding Officer thanked the team for the visit, commenting it had been well received by everyone onboard and was being highlighted in weekly executive summaries. Further adding, the support the team provided had been greatly appreciated noting the value the connection brings. He welcomed future engagements.
Two Caseworkers visited the CSG Task Group, namely RCMD, DNTL and PWLS as they sailed home in November 25 to conduct Return and Reunion support briefs, enabling service personnel time to reflect on their deployment and space to begin preparing for home.
January 26, brought a swift round trip to Bahrain and, although brought to a sudden end due to heightened security changes, it did give the team enough time to get their tasks completed – just! The start of the new year also brought with it the opportunity to deploy with the Royal Marines during Exercise Cold Response in Norway. This Norwegian deployment of over 1500 personnel saw the Caseworker operating in challenging Artic conditions for a period of six weeks, with a follow up visit intended in March 26. This engagement provides a valuable opportunity to engage with personnel working in extreme environments ensuring they remain supported throughout.
Looking ahead a caseworker is scheduled to embark on PWLS to support their tasking across 2026, again strengthening the team’s presence at sea and providing timely support to those deployed and Command. The team also hopes to make a visit to America, Diego Garcia, Falklands and Singapore later in the year extending engagement and welfare support to personnel as well as reaching out to remote units and deployed platforms.
When not planning global trips, the team are busy preparing papers and policies laying the groundwork for future welfare provision and ensuring that welfare support remains consistent and effective across the fleet.
The Deployed Asset Teams work marks an important development in ensuring welfare provision remains visible, responsive and proactive across the Fleet. The early achievements reflect both their commitment and the Royal Navy’s dedication to care and support of its most valuable asset – its people…wherever they serve.
