As you know, the MCN is a tri-service initiative that has been set up by military spouses for military spouses.
It is our response to the many challenges we face, such as loss of our support networks, dealing with issues like loneliness and isolation, having to put our own careers, dreams, and aspirations on hold, perhaps even being forced to consider career options just because they fit in with military life.
For many of you, you probably think that the MCN is a fully-fledged organisation, a permanent feature of military spouse life, and who can blame you, it does feel like that. And believe us, when we say, we wish that were the case. But the truth of the matter is that we are still at the ‘proof of concept’ stage. This is simply a pilot project, which means the long-term future of the MCN is by no means certain.
So, what does this mean?
From about March 2022 onwards, we will be working with an external agency to evaluate the success of the MCN, so looking at things like the number of members we have in our Online Network, how many people have subscribed to our coworking hubs, reporting on hub usage, as well as feedback from the whole community on both. Then from July 2022 onwards, we will be working closely with the MOD to look at the outcomes of the evaluation and discussing next steps for the MCN.
What this means is that we are by no means guaranteed to continue, and for many of you, who have literally sweated blood and tears to get us where we are today, this is understandably not what you want to hear. But it’s the truth, and the battle is not over yet!
What you can do to make sure the MCN is here to stay
If you haven't already joined our Online Network, please join. It's free and you stand only to gain.
Spread the word about the MCN – tell your friends, neighbours all about us - and encourage others to become a member of our wonderful community of military spouses.
Become one of our ambassadors.
Follow us on our Social Media Channels and SHARE with your other networks, LIKE and COMMENT.
Work from one of our hubs and make sure you use the booking system so that we can report on usage.
Volunteer for a case study and let us use your story to inspire others to join.
Help us to add value to the community by sharing your knowledge, expertise, and experiences with your peers – write a blog, run a skill-sharing event, compile some hints & tips or be a guest speaker.
Topics that our members have said they are interested in, include:
Business Support and Business Start-up Advice
Career Advice and Career Insights
Learning & Development Opportunities and Experiences
Practical tips on military life
Fitness, Mental Health and Wellbeing Advice
If you can help out with any of the above, contact us via our Facebook Group or via mcnadmin@militarycowoking.uk We’d love to hear from you!
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