Research and analysis

Overseas LTRE Pilot Evaluation: Service personnel survey

Published 11 May 2026

List of abbreviations

DPIA Data Protection Impact Assessment

GDPR General Data Protection Regulation

JPA Joint Personnel Administration

LTR(E) Established Long-Term Relationship

MOD Ministry of Defence

RAF Royal Air Force

RN Royal Navy

SP Service personnel

VfM Value-for-money

Summary

In January 2024, the Overseas Accommodation Policy Team within the Ministry of Defence (MOD) launched the ‘Accompanied Established Long-Term Relationship (LTR(E)) Overseas Pilot’. The pilot allows Service personnel (SP) in LTR(E) at selected overseas bases to be accompanied by their long-term partner and receive a bespoke allowance package.

A one-year evaluation of the pilot was commissioned by the MOD Overseas Accommodation Policy Team. The pilot evaluation was informed by research activities undertaken throughout the first year of implementation up to May 2025.

A survey was distributed between January and April 2025 to capture the views and experiences of LTR(E) SP and partners applying for/on the pilot and LTR(E) SP at pilot sites who did not join the pilot.

The findings from the survey have been used in the process, impact and value for money evaluation, and can be found in the respective reports.

1. Introduction

In January 2024, the Overseas Accommodation Policy Team within the Ministry of Defence (MOD) launched the ‘Accompanied Established Long-Term Relationship (LTR(E)) Overseas Pilot’. The pilot allows Service personnel (SP) in LTR(E) at selected overseas bases to be accompanied by their long-term partner and receive a bespoke allowance package.

The pilot contributes towards commitments and recommendations outlined in the 2015 and 2025 Strategic Defence Review to widen accommodation entitlements for SP in LTR(E) to recruit and retain individuals in the UK Armed Forces.

A one-year evaluation of the pilot was commissioned by the MOD Overseas Accommodation Policy Team. The evaluation objectives were to understand the extent to which the pilot:

1. was implemented as intended.
2. contributed to the intended outcomes associated with improving the offer for Service personnel in established long-term relationships.
3. contributed to any unintended outcomes.
4. was delivered economically, efficiently, effectively and equitably to achieve value for money.

To meet each objective, a process, impact and value-for-money (VfM) evaluation was undertaken. Further information about the pilot can be found in the Evaluation Summary Paper which can be found via the Accompanied established long-term relationships overseas pilot evaluation landing page.

The pilot evaluation was informed by research activities undertaken throughout the first year of implementation up to May 2025. An online survey was distributed between January and April 2025 to capture the views and experiences of:

• SP in LTR(E) on the pilot, applying for the pilot or those who took part in the pilot (i.e., accompanied overseas)

• SP in LTR(E) at pilot sites who did not join the pilot (i.e., unaccompanied overseas)

• LTR(E) Partners of SP on the pilot, applying for the pilot or took part in the pilot (i.e., to accompanied SP overseas)

The survey aimed to answer the evaluation research questions, alongside other data collected as part of the evaluation. A full list of the evaluation objectives and research questions can be found in the Evaluation Summary.

2. Methodology

2.1 Survey design

A survey was selected to gather responses from as many SP and partners as possible, including those who took part in the pilot, as well as those who chose not to join the pilot. It would complement the qualitative data collected during focus groups and interviews. The survey also enabled the use of both closed and open questions to answer the research questions. 

A survey was less burdensome for participants to complete and for researchers to administer, given the geographically dispersed pilot locations. The survey took approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete, at a time and location suitable to the respondent, opposed to qualitative data collection which can often take 30 to 45 minutes.

The survey questions (Annex A) were designed by badged Government Social Researchers in the Accommodation Analysis Team, in collaboration with the pilot policy stakeholders to ensure relevant questions and topics would answer the evaluation research questions. 

The survey contained 5 key topic areas:

• Demographic Questions

• Preparation and Awareness of the Pilot

• Life Overseas

• Consequences of the Pilot

• Further Comments

Survey questions were tested for understanding prior to administering the survey by four SP (Officer and Other Ranks) and adjusted according to feedback.

2.2 Sample and recruitment

The survey was conducted as a census. All SP in LTR(E)’s and their partners at the pilot locations who were on the pilot or had not joined the pilot had the opportunity to participate. A census was chosen over a sample survey given the limited number of SP on the pilot and the size of the LTR(E) population who could serve overseas is unknown.

The survey was anonymous and response to the survey was voluntary. Participant information was provided at the start of the survey to ensure informed consent. Initial demographic questions in the survey ensured only eligible participants were routed to the main survey questions.

2.3 Survey distribution and communications

The survey was designed and distributed via the MOD survey platform ‘LimeSurvey’. The following communication methods were used to inform and invite eligible personnel to take part in the survey:

• Email invitations direct to eligible SP (with a request to forward to partners)

• Microsoft Sway

• Routine/Part 1 Orders

• Army, Royal Air Force (RAF) and Royal Navy (RN) HIVE

• On-site posters and QR codes

2.4 Analysis

Responses to the survey were extracted from LimeSurvey and uploaded to MS Excel. Responses were held securely on MOD servers. Manual checks were conducted by the research team to ensure the data had been downloaded accurately. All respondents gave consent to participate in the survey, so no responses were removed.

Data was cleaned and relevant questions were regrouped (e.g., 5-point Likert scales were regrouped to 3-point scales; ‘agree’, ‘disagree’ or ‘neither agree nor disagree’).

Responses to closed survey questions were analysed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and proportions). Where applicable, the analysis included breakdowns by service and rank.

Missing values, where respondents had not provided a response/valid response, were not included in the analysis. As a result, the unweighted counts (or ‘n’) varies from question to question. Data could not be weighted as there is no validated population size for LTR(E) SP. This is because relationship status is not always declared/mandated on Joint Personnel Administration (JPA). As a result, the true size and composition of the LTR(E) population is unknown. In addition, given the small sample size and lack of comparative groups, no inferential statistical tests were performed.

Raw counts and proportions were produced for each survey question. Percentages may not always equal 100 due to rounding. Where there less than 5 responses to a question, the results have been suppressed (data is not published).

The final survey question was an open question and analysed qualitatively. Comments were uploaded to Atlas.Ti software and coded into themes by a primary researcher. The findings were then quality assured by a secondary researcher using Cohen’s Kappa Coefficient and thematic analysis (Hallgren (2012), Hassan (2024), Cole (2023), McHugh (2012)). Cohen’s Kappa Coefficient (k) showed substantial agreement between the primary research and quality assurer in the application of codes (k= 0.79, p<.001).

2.5 Ethics

As defined under JSP 536, the pilot evaluation did not fall under scope of requiring approval from MOD ethic and scientific advisory boards. All research activities were undertaken by Government Social Researchers, strictly adhering to professional and ethical processes (including General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Government Social Research practices): 

• A Research Governance Checklist was completed for research activities and sent for approval by other Government Social Researchers within the MOD.

• Specific and informed consent was gained from respondents at the start of the survey. Respondents could not proceed until they had provided their consent. Respondents could withdraw from the survey at any point. It was made clear to respondents that their participation was voluntary.

• Respondents were made aware of how their data would be stored and used within the survey in line with GDPR. A Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) was completed and approved, and data was securely stored on MOD IT systems.

• The survey was anonymous; SP were informed their information would not be shared with their Chain of Command.

• The survey was accessible to those without a MOD IT account.

• To reduce burden on SP, we only asked questions which were essential to answer the research questions and streamlined the survey questions to contain as few open-ended questions as possible.

2.6 Quality Assurance

The survey plan, including methodology and data analysis were quality assured by an independent Principal Government Social Researcher.

The quantitative analysis was quality assured by a Government Social Researcher not directly involved in the analysis. Quality assurance involved checking each formula to each question. All data tables were quality assured by an independent Government Operational Researcher.

Quality assurance for qualitative data used Cohen’s Kappa Coefficient, a statistical test of inter-rater reliability i.e., the extent to which researchers agreed/disagreed about the absence and presence of codes and themes.

2.7 Response rates and limitations

The survey received 45 responses from LTR(E) SP on the pilot (39% of the LTR(E) pilot population in Cyprus). Responses were received from a variety of ranks within Army and RAF. Cyprus in general has very low numbers of RN assigned, therefore explaining no-low participation from this service.

In contrast, low response rates (less than 10) were received from LTR(E) partners on the pilot and LTR(E) SP who did not join the pilot. Most survey findings for these populations are not publishable to meet MOD statistical disclosure control principles. Therefore, findings for these populations are limited, likely non-representative or generalisable, and vulnerable to biases. Insights drawn from this data for these populations in the evaluation is caveated and should be used illustratively, not to draw conclusions. Further data and research on these populations is required.

3. Findings

Data can be found via this link and has been used in the relevant evaluation report.

4. References

Cole, R. (2023) Inter-Rater Reliability Methods in Qualitative Case Study Research. Sociological Methods & Research, 53(4), 1944 -1975

Hallgren KA. (2012) Computing Inter-Rater Reliability for Observational Data: An Overview and Tutorial. Tutor Quant Methods Psychol. 8(1):23-34

Hassan M. (2024) Inter-Rater Reliability - Methods, Examples and Formulas (researchmethod.net) 

McHugh ML. (2012) Interrater reliability: the kappa statistic. Biochem Med (Zagreb). 22(3):276-82

Annexes

Annex A: Questionnaire

Study Title: Accompanied Established Long-Term Relationship (LTR(E)) Overseas Pilot Evaluation

Section A: Participant information page

This survey provides an opportunity for you to help shape the future of Defence Accommodation Policy for overseas locations. It should take you about 10-20 minutes to complete. Please be aware the survey will expire if there is no action for 45 minutes or longer. Please complete the survey in one sitting.

The survey will close on DATE.

Please read the following information about the survey. If content, provide your consent to take part in the survey at the bottom of the page.

What is the purpose of the survey?

The MOD has launched the ‘Accompanied Established Long-Term Relationship Overseas Pilot’. The pilot is available at selected overseas bases (see below) and allows Service Personnel in LTR(E) to be accompanied overseas with access to the same family accommodation as personnel who are married/in civil partnerships and receive a customised allowance package. This means the service personnel is permitted to bring their partner on their overseas assignment.

This survey will be used to assess the impact of the pilot on Service personnel. Your participation in this survey provides a key opportunity to shape future Defence Accommodation policy. We want to find out: 

• If applicable, your experience of applying to and joining the pilot.

• If applicable, your views of the pilot.

• Your experiences of living overseas, including experiences of employment, childcare, local cohesion, and motivation

• Your overall thoughts of the MOD as an employer.

You do not have to be part of the pilot to take part in the survey.

Your feedback will be combined with insights from other Service personnel and civilians to directly contribute to pilot evaluation. This information will be used to improve the current pilot, if required; and inform future decisions about the overseas accommodation offer for Service personnel and partners in long-term relationships. 

Who can take part:

• All Regular Service Personnel in an Established Long-Term Relationships at an overseas pilot site.

• All partners of Regular Service personnel in Establish-Long Term Relationship partners who are accompanying/have accompanied Service Personnel overseas. 

• All participants must have been assigned to/stationed at the following overseas sites since January 2024: Cyprus, Falkland Islands, Canada, Czech Republic or Sri Lanka.

An Established Long-Term Relationship (LTR(E)) is defined as “A Defence-recognised relationship between two people that has continued for a long time and will continue for a long time in the future, with the intent of permanence, but without the formal legal recognition of marriage or civil partnership.” Personnel who wish to have Defence recognised LTR(E) status must have submitted an application form and provided required supporting evidence.

Please note: Individuals who are married or in civil partnerships are not eligible for this survey.

What you will be asked to do:  

• You will be asked to consent to taking part in the survey on this page. 

• You will be asked to complete the online survey. 

• Your participation is entirely voluntary.

• Your responses will be anonymous, meaning you will not be identified in the research findings and your responses will not be shared with your Chain of Command. 

• Each service person is permitted one survey response, and where applicable, each partner is permitted one survey response.

What are possible disadvantages (or risks) of taking part?  

There are no anticipated disadvantages to taking part, beyond the time commitment. The survey does ask some questions about your experience living overseas and questions on your relationship and family circumstances, which some personnel may find stressful. Welfare support is available to all Service personnel through dedicated Welfare teams. HIVE information centres or tri-service Family Federations (linked below) can provide support to family and partners of military personnel in all Services:

• RAF Family Federation

• Army Family Federation

• Navy Family Federation

Do I have to take part?  

No, participation is entirely voluntary, but your participation will help to ensure that we capture the views of a broad range of Service personnel and partners. No incentives or rewards will be provided for participation.  

Can I withdraw from the research and what will happen if I withdraw?  

• You can withdraw at any time before submitting the survey. Your responses will not be saved until you finish and submit the survey and there is no consequence to withdrawing.  

• You may skip questions you prefer not to answer.  

• Once you have submitted the survey, your data cannot be withdrawn as it will be anonymous and therefore, not identifiable.  

Will you tell people what I say?  

• We will be sharing anonymised findings only in a report which will be shared with the Defence Accommodation Team and stakeholders to inform policy development. A research report will also be published on GOV.UK.

• We will not use your name or any information that identified you when we share the research findings and your will not be asked to submit identifiable data in the survey such as name or email.  

• Anonymised survey responses, aggregated data and analysed research outputs will be stored in the People Accommodation SharePoint site until they are no longer required by MOD data protection policy.  

• We will not tell your Chain of Command or anyone else in your Service/partner’s Service if you are taking part, if you withdraw or what you say.

• Taking part, withdrawing, and your responses will not impact you/your partner’s career in any way. 

Who is leading this survey?

This survey is being conducted by the Defence People Accommodation Analysis Team, part of MOD Head Office, to evaluate the pilot.

Who do I contact if I have any questions? 

For further questions about the survey or pilot, please contact: people-accommodation-research@mod.gov.uk

Who do I contact if I have a complaint about the survey? 

If you have a complaint about the survey specifically, please contact: Head of Social Research at MOD. If you have a complaint about the policy, please refer Tri-service accommodation regulations (TSARs) (JSP 464) - GOV.UK to find out where to direct your complaint.  

Please choose only one of the following:  

1. I have read and understood the information above and wish to continue with the survey.
2. I do not wish to continue with the survey.

Section B: Demographic Questions

B1: Are you a:  

1. Regular Service Person
2. Partner of a Regular Service Person

Please note, this survey is not applicable for Reservists.

B2: (SP) Are you in an Established Long-Term Relationship (LTR(E)), as defined below? 

An Established Long-Term Relationship (LTR(E)) is defined as “A Defence-recognised relationship between two people that has continued for a long time and will continue for a long time in the future, with the intent of permanence, but without the formal legal recognition of marriage or civil partnership”. Personnel who wish to have Defence recognised LTR(E) status must have submitted an application form, provided required supporting evidence.

1. Yes
2. No (routed out)

B3: (SP) Are you currently serving accompanied overseas?

1. Yes, I am currently or was previously serving accompanied overseas (routed to SP in LTR(E) on pilot, full survey)
2. No, but I have recently returned from serving accompanied overseas (routed to SP in LTR(E) on pilot, full survey)
3. No, but I am applying/registering to serve accompanied overseas (routed to SP in LTR(E) on pilot application questions only)
4. No, I am not serving or applying to serve accompanied overseas (routed to SP in LTR(E) NOT on pilot questions)

Please note, ‘serving accompanied’ means you have brought your partner, and if applicable, child(ren) to live with you overseas.  

B2: (Partner) Are you in an Established Long-Term Relationship (LTR(E)), as defined below?   

An Established Long-Term Relationship (LTR(E)) is defined as “A Defence-recognised relationship between two people that has continued for a long time and will continue for a long time in the future, with the intent of permanence, but without the formal legal recognition of marriage or civil partnership.” Personnel who wish to have Defence recognised LTR(E) status must have submitted an application form, provided required supporting evidence.

1. Yes
2. No (routed out)

B3: (If Partner) Are you currently accompanying a Service Personnel overseas?

1. Yes, I am currently accompanying my partner overseas (routed to partners in LTR(E) on pilot, full survey)
2. No, but I have recently returned from accompanying my partner overseas (routed to partners in LTR(E) on pilot, full survey)
3. No, but I am applying/registering to accompany my partner overseas (routed to partners in LTR(E) on pilot application questions only)
4. No, I am not accompanying or applying to accompany my partner overseas (routed out)

B4: (ALL) Since January 2024, have you been assigned to/stationed at any of the following overseas sites?   

1. Cyprus
2. Falklands Islands
3. Canada
4. Czech Republic
5. Sri Lanka
6. I have not been overseas since January 2024 (routed out)
7. Other (routed out)

B10: How long have you been at your overseas location (Cyprus, Falkland Islands, Canada, Czech Republic or Sri Lanka)?

If you have been assigned an overseas location but have not yet moved, please select ‘0-2 months’. 

1. 0-2 months (routed to application questions only)
2. 3-12 months (routed to all applicable questions)
3. Over 1 year (routed to all applicable questions)
4. Since January 2024, I have returned from being overseas (routed to all applicable questions, including options about preserved rights)
5. Prior to January 2024, I returned from being overseas (routed out)
6. I have not been assigned overseas and/or am not applying to go overseas. (routed out)

B5: (All) Are you in a dual-serving couple? 

1. Yes
2. No

B6: (For SP and Dual Serving Couples) Which Service do you serve in?   

1. Royal Navy
2. Royal Marines
3. Royal Air Force
4. Army

B6: (For Dual Serving and Partners) Which Service does your partner serve in?  

1. Royal Navy
2. Royal Marines
3. Royal Air Force
4. Army

B7: (For SP and Dual Serving Couples) What is your current Rank?   

1. Able Seaman, Marine, Private, LCpl or Air Specialist (OR1-3)
2. Junior NCO (LH or Cpl) (OR4)
3. Petty Officer, Sergeant (OR6)
4. Chief Petty Officer, Chief Technician, Colour Sergeant, Staff Sergeant, Flight Sergeant (OR7)
5. Warrant Officer 2 (OR8)
6. Warrant Officer 1, Warrant Officer (OR9)
7. Sub-Lieutenant, Lieutenant, Pilot Officer, Flying Officer (OF1)
8. Lieutenant RN, Captain, Flight Lieutenant (OF2)
9. Lieutenant Commander, Major, Squadron Leader (OF3)
10. Commander, Lieutenant Colonel, Wing Commander (OF4)
11. Captain RN, Colonel, Group Captain (OF5)
12. Commodore, Brigadier, Air Commodore (OF6)
13. (Rear, Vice) Admiral, (Major, Lieutenant) General, (Air Vice, Air, Air Chief) Marshall (OF7-9)
14. Other – please specify

B7: (For Dual Serving Couples and Partners) What is your partner’s current Rank?  

1. Able Seaman, Marine, Private, LCpl or Air Specialist (OR1-3)
2. Junior NCO (LH or Cpl) (OR4)
3. Petty Officer, Sergeant (OR6)
4. Chief Petty Officer, Chief Technician, Colour Sergeant, Staff Sergeant, Flight Sergeant (OR7)
5. Warrant Officer 2 (OR8)
6. Warrant Officer 1, Warrant Officer (OR9)
7. Sub-Lieutenant, Lieutenant, Pilot Officer, Flying Officer (OF1)
8. Lieutenant RN, Captain, Flight Lieutenant (OF2)
9. Lieutenant Commander, Major, Squadron Leader (OF3)
10. Commander, Lieutenant Colonel, Wing Commander (OF4)
11. Captain RN, Colonel, Group Captain (OF5)
12. Commodore, Brigadier, Air Commodore (OF6)
13. (Rear, Vice) Admiral, (Major, Lieutenant) General, (Air Vice, Air, Air Chief) Marshall (OF7-9)
14. Other – please specify
15. Unknown

B8: (All) What is your sex?   

1. Female
2. Male
3. Prefer not to say

B9: (SP) Is this your first time being assigned overseas?

1. Yes
2. No, I have served overseas before

B9: (Partner) Is this your first time accompanying a Service person overseas?

1. Yes
2. No, I have accompanied a Service person overseas before

B11: (All) Do you have children accompanying you overseas?

1. Yes, all children are accompanying
2. Yes, one or more child(ren) are accompanying, and one or more child(ren) are in the UK
3. No, all children have remained in the UK
4. No, I do not have children

B12: (If ‘yes’ to B11) How many children are accompanying you overseas?

1. 1
2. 2
3. 3
4. 4+

B13: (If ‘yes’ to ‘1)’ and ‘2)’ or ‘no all children are remaining in the UK’ in B11) What age is your child?

If you have more than one child, please select multiple age ranges.

1. Under 5
2. 5-11 years
3. 12-16 years
4. 17-18 years
5. 18+ years

Section C: Awareness and Application of the Pilot

The following questions will ask about your awareness to serve accompanied overseas and if applicable, your experience applying to serve accompanied overseas. 

C1: (SP and Partners on Pilot) How did you find out about serving accompanied overseas?

You can select more than one option.

1. Posters/leaflets
2. Online Defence communications (e.g., DefNet, Defence Connect)
3. Service Apps e.g. MyNavy
4. Email
5. Social media
6. Chain of Command
7. Routine orders/Part 1 orders
8. Unit HR/Administrator/Welfare Staff
9. Friends/colleagues
10. Partner
11. Briefings prior to moving overseas
12. BFBS (British Forces News)
13. Unknown
14. Other

C2: (SP not on pilot) To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements:

Strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, strongly disagree, don’t know, not applicable

1. (SP not on Pilot) I was aware I could serve accompanied overseas with my long-term partner.
2. (All SP) I was aware if I served accompanied with my long-term partner, I would receive the same allowances as a married service person.
3. (All SP) Adverts/communications had enough information to help me decide whether serve accompanied overseas.
4. (All SP) Information about allowances and accommodation helped me decide whether to serve accompanied overseas.

C2: (SP on pilot) To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements:

1. (All SP I was aware if I served accompanied with my long-term partner, I would receive the same allowances as a married service person.
2. (All SP) Adverts/communications had enough information to help me decide whether serve accompanied overseas.
3. (All SP) Information about allowances and accommodation helped me decide whether to serve accompanied overseas.
4. (SP on pilot) During the application process, I received sufficient and accurate information of the allowance entitlements I would get serving accompanied overseas.
5. (SP on pilot) During the application process, I received sufficient and accurate information of the accommodation entitlements I would get serving accompanied overseas.
6. (SP on pilot) During the application process, I understood information about accommodation I would be entitled to while serving accompanied overseas.
7. (SP on pilot) During the application process, I understood information about allowances I would be entitled to while serving accompanied overseas.

Answered using the following options:  

1. Strongly agree
2. Agree
3. Neither agree nor disagree
4. Disagree strongly disagree
5. Don’t know
6. Not applicable

C2: (Partners) To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements:

1. (Partners) I was aware if I accompanied my long-term partner, I would receive the same allowances as a married service person.
2. (Partners) Adverts/communications had enough information to help me decide whether to accompany my partner overseas.
3. (All) Information about allowances and accommodation helped me decide whether to serve accompany my partner overseas.
4. (Partners) During the application process, I received sufficient and accurate information of the allowance entitlements I would get accompanying my partner overseas.
5. (Partners) During the application process, I received sufficient and accurate information of the accommodation entitlements I would get accompanying my partner overseas.
6. (Partners) During the application process, I understood information about accommodation I would be entitled to while accompanying my partner overseas.
7. (Partners) During the application process, I understood information about allowances I would be entitled to while serving accompanied overseas.

Answered using the following options:  

1. Strongly agree
2. Agree
3. Neither agree nor disagree
4. Disagree strongly disagree
5. Don’t know
6. Not applicable

C3: (For SP not on pilot) What were your reasons for not serving accompanied overseas? [Select all that apply]

1. Did not know I was able to serve accompanied with my long-term partner overseas
2. Unclear information/communications about serving accompanied overseas
3. Unclear application process to serve accompanied overseas
4. Application/preparation time to serve accompanied overseas was too short
5. Did not want to take partner overseas
6. Unable to register LTR(E) status in JPA
7. Unable to change Personal Status Category (PStatCat) on JPA
8. Partner did not want to accompany me overseas
9. Was not supported by the unit/chain of command to be accompanied overseas
10. Was not supported by my Service to be accompanied overseas
11. Offer to serve accompanied overseas was not sufficient/suitable
12. Inconsistencies between UK and overseas policies
13. Concern about local customs/culture
14. Partner’s employment could not be supported
15. Childcare/ child’s education would not be supported
16. Medical reasons for partner, children or family
17. Partner was unable to obtain a visa to accompany overseas
18. Other - please specify

C4: (SP on pilot) How satisfied were you with the following aspects of the application and allowance processes for serving accompanied overseas:

Only for SP and partners on the pilot (including those who have not been overseas for over 2 months.

1. (SP and partners) Partner’s visa application
2. (SP and Partners) Time to prepare and apply to serve accompanied overseas
3. (SP and Partners) Support of unit staff during the application process
4. (SP and Partners) Knowledge of unit staff during application process
5. (SP) Ability to change Personal Status Category (PStatCat) on JPA
6. (SP) Ability to change relationship status to LTR(E) on JPA
7. (SP and partners) Clarity of evidence required to prove relationship status as LTR(E)
8. (SP and Partners) Ability to ask questions about serving accompanied overseas
9. (SP and Partners) Applying for accommodation to serve accompanied overseas
10. (SP and Partners) Applying for allowances to serve accompanied overseas
11. (SP and Partners) Receiving accommodation within your entitlement while serving accompanied overseas.
12. (SP and partners) Receiving an allowance package that supported your circumstances while serving accompanied overseas.
13. (SP and Partners) Receiving the same entitlement as personnel who are married/in civil partnerships and serving accompanied overseas.

Answered using the following options:  

1. Very satisfied
2. Satisfied
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4. Dissatisfied
5. Don’t know
6. Not applicable

C4: (Partners) How satisfied were you with the following aspects of the application and allowance processes for accompanying your partner overseas:

Only for SP and partners on the pilot (including those who have not been overseas for over 2 months.

1. (SP and partners) My visa application
2. (SP and Partners) Time to prepare and apply to accompany my partner overseas
3. (SP and Partners) Support of unit staff during the application process
4. (SP and Partners) Knowledge of unit staff during application process
5. (SP and partners) Clarity of evidence required to prove relationship status as LTR(E)
6. (SP and Partners) Ability to ask questions about accompanying my partner overseas
7. (SP and Partners) Applying for accommodation to accompanying my partner overseas
8. (SP and Partners) Applying for allowances to accompanying my partner overseas
9. (SP and Partners) Receiving accommodation within your entitlement while accompanying my partner overseas
10. (SP and partners) Receiving an allowance package that supported your circumstances while accompanying my partner overseas.
11. (SP and Partners) Receiving the same entitlement as personnel who are married/in civil partnerships and serving accompanied overseas.

Answered using the following options:  

1. Very satisfied
2. Satisfied
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4. Dissatisfied
5. Don’t know
6. Not applicable

C5: (SP on pilot +2 months) Did you experience any issues being allocated your accommodation while serving accompanied overseas:

1. Yes (if yes, please specify)
2. No

C5: (Partners +2 months) Did you experience any issues being allocated your accommodation while accompanying your partner overseas:

1. Yes (if yes, please specify)
2. No

C6: (SP on pilot +2 months) Did you experience any issues receiving your new allowance package while serving accompanied overseas:

1. Yes (if yes, please specify)
2. No

C6: (Partners +2 months) Did you experience any issues receiving your new allowance package while accompanying your partner overseas:

1. Yes (if yes, please specify)
2. No

C7: (SP and partners +2 months) Do you feel financially supported to live with your partner overseas?

1. Yes
2. No

C8: (SP and partners on pilot) What information or support, if any, was missing from the application process? Please select all that are applicable.

Only for SP and partners on the pilot (including those who have not been overseas for over 2 months.

1. Information about registering personal status category on JPA
2. Information about registering relationship status (LTR(E)) on JPA
3. Information about visa processes
4. Information about applying for and receiving allowances
5. Information about applying for and receiving accommodation
6. Information about further support and contacts while serving accompanied overseas
7. Information about preserved rights on return to the UK
8. Information to support partner (e.g., employment overseas, local welfare and support)
9. Information about childcare and education overseas
10. Information about medical services overseas
11. Information about life and the local area overseas (e.g., culture, transport, safety)

Section D: Life Overseas 

For partners and all SP, regardless of whether they are on the pilot.

D1-16 Not for SP or partners who are only at application stage or overseas for 0-2 months. Only D17 asked to SP and partners at application/overseas for 0-2 months.

The following questions will ask about your experience overseas.

D1: (All SP and partners) If necessary, have you been able to access medical services overseas (doctors, hospitals etc.,)?

1. Yes, without difficulties
2. Yes, with some difficulties
3. No, I was unable to
4. No, I did not need to

D2: (All SP and partners who answered 1-3 D1) How satisfied have you been with wait times for medical services?

1. Very satisfied
2. Satisfied
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4. Dissatisfied
5. Very dissatisfied
6. Don’t know
7. Not applicable

D3: (All SP and partners) If necessary, have you been able to access dental services (e.g., dentist appointments) overseas?

1. Yes, without difficulties
2. Yes, with some difficulties
3. No, I was unable to
4. No, I did not need to

D4: (All SP and partners who answered 1-3 D3) How satisfied have you been with wait times for dental services?

1. Very satisfied
2. Satisfied
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4. Dissatisfied
5. Very dissatisfied
6. Don’t know
7. Not applicable

D5: (All SP and partners) If necessary, have you been able to access maternal or midwifery services overseas?

1. Yes, without difficulties
2. Yes, with some difficulties
3. No, I was unable to
4. No, I did not need to

D6: (All SP and partners who answered 1-3 D5) How satisfied have you been with wait times for maternal or midwifery services?

1. Very satisfied
2. Satisfied
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4. Dissatisfied
5. Don’t know
6. Not applicable

(D7-10 Only for SP and Partners who answered ‘yes’ to B11. i.e., children accompanying overseas)

D7: (All SP and partners) Have you been able to access necessary Wrap Around Childcare overseas?

1. Yes, without difficulties
2. Yes, with some difficulties
3. No, I was unable to
4. No, I did not need to

D8: (All SP and partners who answered 1-3 for D7.) How satisfied are you with Wrap Around Childcare overseas?

1. Very satisfied
2. Satisfied
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4. Dissatisfied
5. Very dissatisfied
6. Don’t know
7. Not applicable

D9: (All SP and partners) Have you been able to access necessary education services for your children overseas (e.g., schooling, early years childcare)?

1. Yes, without difficulties
2. Yes, with some difficulties
3. No, I was unable to
4. No, I did not need to

D10: (All SP and partners who answered 1-3 for D9) How satisfied are you with the education services overseas?

1. Very satisfied
2. Satisfied
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4. Dissatisfied
5. Very dissatisfied
6. Don’t know
7. Not applicable

D11: (Partners only) If necessary, have you been able to access employment opportunities overseas?

1. Yes, without difficulties
2. Yes, with some difficulties
3. No, I was unable to
4. No, I did not need to

D12: (Partners only) Do you feel allowances given by Defence are suitable for supporting you whilst unemployed overseas? 

1. Yes
2. No

D13: (All SP) While overseas, how would you rate the level of morale of:

Very high, high, neither high nor low, low, very low, don’t know, not applicable

1. Myself
2. My immediate team
3. The Service as a whole (Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army, Royal Air Force)

D14: (All) How satisfied are you with the following aspects of your overseas accommodation:

Very satisfied, satisfied, neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, dissatisfied, very dissatisfied, don’t know, not applicable.

1. The location
2. The quality
3. Receiving my choice of accommodation

D15: Were you temporarily placed into another type of accommodation oversea before being allocated Service Family Accommodation (SFA)?

1. Yes
2. No

D16: (SP on pilot) To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements about life overseas:

Strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, strongly disagree.

1. (All SP) I am enjoying/ enjoyed my overseas assignment
2. (SP on pilot) I would have enjoyed the overseas assignment if my partner had not been able to accompany me.
3. (SP on pilot) I feel/felt physically and mentally safe serving in an LTR(E) at my overseas location
4. (All) I was/am able to integrate with the local military community while serving in an LTR(E) overseas.
5. (All) I was/am able to integrate with the local civilian community while serving in an LTR(E) overseas.
6. (All SP) I feel/felt motivated during my overseas assignment
7. (All SP) I have/had a positive work-life balance while overseas

D16: (SP not on pilot) To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements about life overseas:

Strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, strongly disagree.

1. (All SP) I am enjoying/ enjoyed my overseas assignment
2. (All) I was/am able to integrate with the local military community while serving in an LTR(E) overseas.
3. (All) I was/am able to integrate with the local civilian community while serving in an LTR(E) overseas.
4. (All SP) I feel/felt motivated during my overseas assignment
5. (All SP) I have/had a positive work-life balance while overseas

D16: (Partners) To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements about life overseas:

Strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, strongly disagree.

1. (Partners only) I am enjoying/enjoyed accompanying my partner overseas
2. (SP and partners on pilot) I feel/felt physically and mentally safe in an LTR(E) at my overseas location
3. (All) I was/am able to integrate with the local military community while in an LTR(E) overseas.
4. (All) I was/am able to integrate with the local civilian community while in an LTR(E) overseas.

D17: (All SP and partners including 0-2 months) What barriers do you feel there are to serving overseas? Please select all that apply.

1. Culture and/or language
2. Leaving partner
3. Leaving family
4. Leaving friends
5. Isolation/loneliness
6. Visa and/or legal challenges
7. Accommodation
8. Cost
9. Diet/Food
10. Health/Healthcare
11. Safety
12. Transport
13. Confinement to military base
14. Work-life balance
15. Career Development
16. Childcare
17. Children’s age
18. Other – please specify

Section E: Consequences of Pilot

The following questions will ask about your opinion of serving accompanied overseas.

All SP and partners on pilot (including those applying/serving under 2 months)

E1: (SP) To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements:

1. (All SP on pilot) Serving accompanied overseas influenced my decision to volunteer/accept overseas assignment.
2. (All SP on pilot) The ability to serve accompanied at my current overseas location influenced my decision to volunteer/accept assignment at this location over others
3. (All SP on pilot) I would have moved unaccompanied if unable to serve accompanied overseas.
4. (All SP and Partners) I considered marrying my partner/forming a civil partnership, so that I could serve accompanied.
5. (All SP on pilot, over 2 months) I would be willing to volunteer/be assigned overseas again if I was able to serve accompanied.
6. (All SP and Partners) I believe serving accompanied overseas creates equality between Service personnel in long term relationships and Service personnel who are married/in civil partnerships.
7. (All SP and Partners) I would recommend serving accompanied overseas to others.
8. (SP and Partners) The ability to serve accompanied overseas in an LTR(E) makes the Armed Forces feel like a modern employer
9. (SP) Policy changes allowing me to serve accompanied overseas in an LTR(E)made me feel valued as an employee.
10. (SP and Partners) Policy changes allowing me to serve accompanied overseas in an LTR(E)made me feel treated the same as personnel who are married or in civil partnerships.
11. (SP) The ability to serve accompanied overseas in an LTR(E)has influenced my intention to stay in the Armed Forces
12. (SP and Partners) The ability to serve accompanied overseas in an LTR(E) creates an inclusive environment in Defence with a modern workforce.

Answered using the following options:  

1. Strongly agree
2. Agree
3. Neither agree nor disagree
4. Disagree strongly disagree
5. Don’t know
6. Not applicable

E1: (Partners) To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements:

Strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, strongly disagree, don’t know, not applicable.

1. (Partners) I considered marrying my partner/forming a civil partnership, so that I could accompany them overseas.
2. (Partners) I believe serving accompanied overseas creates equality between Service personnel in long term relationships and Service personnel who are married/in civil partnerships.
3. (Partners) I would recommend serving accompanied overseas to others.
4. (SP and partners) The ability to accompany my partner overseas in an LTR(E) makes the Armed Forces feel like a modern employer
5. (Partners) Policy changes allowing me to accompany my partner overseas in an LTR(E)made me feel treated the same as personnel who are married or in civil partnerships.
6. (Partners) The ability to accompany my partner overseas in an LTR(E) creates an inclusive environment in Defence with a modern workforce.

Answered using the following options:  

1. Strongly agree
2. Agree
3. Neither agree nor disagree
4. Disagree strongly disagree
5. Don’t know
6. Not applicable

Section F: Further Comments

Do you have any other reflections or comments about serving accompanied overseas you would like to mention? (100-word limit)