Not only do our veterans protect our rights and freedoms, but they also provide services and aid to those in need. In many instances, the UK is the first on the scene providing medical aid, food, and water at a level no other country can come close to during disasters both home and abroad.
As former members of the finest Armed Forces in the world, our military Veterans have demonstrated values, skills, commitment and willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for others. They have always, and continue, to provide a rich contribution to society, and the overwhelming majority of our Veterans thrive.
It is right that we as a nation – government, charities, business and the wider public – support and empower those who have served us in our Armed Forces. Veterans, young and old, offer a wealth of experience, skills and knowledge that are vital for civil society. We should be proud of the care, support and respect our society gives to Veterans.
If you are a veteran please inform your GP surgery. You will be entitled to priority access to NHS hospital care, as well as other benefits. Being flagged as a veteran in your NHS medical notes will help to ensure that you are able to access dedicated services for those who have served in the UK armed forces. These include services for mental health and physical health conditions.
A guide to caring for the Armed Forces Veteran Community
Veterans Mental Health Services
Mental illness is common and can affect anyone, including serving and ex-members of the armed forces and their families. Some people cope with support from family and friends, or by getting help with other issues in their lives. Others need clinical care and treatment, which could be from the NHS, support groups or charities.
Although it's completely normal to experience anxiety or depression after traumatic events, this can be tough to deal with. Some people may not experience some of these symptoms until a few years after leaving the armed forces.
They may also delay getting help for a number of reasons, such as thinking they can cope, fear of criticism, or feeling that NHS therapists will not understand. But there is help available.
Veterans Organisations
There are currently over 200 charitable organisations within the UK whose sole purpose is to give support to Veterans and Serving Armed Forces members. The support they offer ranges from help with mental health and rehabilitation, assistance with finances and housing, to peer support and training opportunities.
