Is Single Living Accommodation making personnel want to leave the Armed Forces?

More service personnel say their experience of Single Living Accommodation has increased their intention to leave the military over the last four years, according to a Government report.

The Lived Experience SLA survey of more than 4,700 service personnel has been released every couple of years since 2022, with forces' living standards in the spotlight in recent years with concerns being raised about issues such as damp and mould.

This year's report found 39% of personnel said their experience of SLA had increased their intention to exit the forces – a percentage similar to that of 2024, but an increase from 34% in 2022.

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Despite a fall in dissatisfaction in the areas since 2022, the main points of concern are the response to requests for repair and maintenance work, the quality of it, Wi-Fi provision and – topping the list - 53% were dissatisfied with snack preparation facilities.

Anti-social behaviour and the unannounced or forced entry of a contractor or industry partner were listed as key drivers to 16% of personnel feeling unsafe in their SLA due to unacceptable behaviours.

When it comes to what matters most to personnel in SLA, there's an interesting discrepancy between choice, quality, value for money and cost.

In all three editions of the survey report, the most desired facilities among personnel in Single Living Accommodation include enhanced cooking facilities, having a double bed and, leading the way at 82%, having an en-suite bathroon.

Two thirds said quality is considered the most important factor in living standards, while 21% instead prioritised value for money.

The survey, which included responses from regulars and reservists, found 13% of SLA experiences increased the intention to stay in the Armed Forces – up from 10% in 2022.

On-site welfare provision such as having gym space available, convenience, such as the commute to work, and lighting were given as areas with the most satisfaction.