Joining the Armed Forces requires such strength and commitment. Whist for many, it is an honour to serve, we are aware that service can have significant impacts on Mental Health, and it is vital for you to get support to be able to deal with traumatic events and re-familiarise yourself with every-day life.
There are many services and charities who can understand your experiences and help you find ways of coping, as well as offering practical support too.
Reaching out for support is a sign of strength.
NHS and Government Support for Veterans
NHS Military Health Care - Find out more information about the NHS offer to Veterans following the implementation of the Armed Forces Covenant.
The Gov.uk website lists details of organisations who can support you if you are in crisis and require urgent mental health support,. You can access a range of services.
You can also access information surrounding armed forces pensions, or access your local SSAFA or RBL branch.
Click here to view the Gov.Uk page on pensions and compensation for veterans.
If you are claiming a war pension, or a war widow or widower pension and you are moving abroad, you should get advice on your pension.
You can get advice from Veterans UK. Their contact details are:
Telephone from the UK: 0808 1914218
Telephone from abroad: + 44 1 253 866043
Email: [email protected]
Support Agencies and Charities helping Armed Forces/Veterans
This video was created by the British Legion, identifying how hard it can be to transition into everyday life following time in the Armed Forces.
View more about their support services on their website, britishlegion.org
The British Legion have also created the Battle Back Centre, an initiative aimed at helping those with injuries and disabilities following service. Read more here.
Organisations supporting a range of issues, for Veterans and their families
The Armed Forces Covenant - The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. Visit this page to find out more about your rights as a Veteran, or a Veteran partner/child. The covenant covers all kinds of areas, including housing, NHS services, schooling, employment and much more. Click here to view their website or click here to view their Advice and Support pages.
Bolton Armed Forces for Veterans charity - Bolton Armed Forces for Veterans charity, offering all manner of advice and support for Veterans in Bolton and the wider area. View their website here.
SSAFA - SSAFA provide a range of services, including mentoring throughout your transition, financial and housing services. View their website here.
You can also view:
https://www.rafbf.org/how-we-help RAF benevolent fund
https://royal-naval-association.co.uk/ charity support Navy veterans
https://soldierscharity.org/ Army benevolent fund
Employment
https://www.rfea.org.uk/ - employment services for Veterans
https://www.veteranemployment.co.uk/ - ETS - Veterans Employment Transition Support - is a social enterprise that brings together charities, businesses and the MOD to improve employment outcomes for veterans, employers and the UK economy
https://helpforheroes.org.uk/ - support for veterans, and their families. Access to mentors, peer support, employment advise and so much more.
Health and Recovery of Veterans and their families
https://blesma.org/ military charity for wounded veterans and their families, offering a wide range of support
https://www.walkingwiththewounded.org.uk/ military charity for wounded veterans and their families, offering a wide range of support
https://www.blindveterans.org.uk/ supports blind veterans and their families
https://www.veteranshearingsupport.co.uk/ We know hearing loss is a common problem for Veterans. Visit here for more information about support that may be available to you.
https://www.combatstress.org.uk/ mental health support for veterans
https://www.veteransservicelse.nhs.uk/alcohol-and-substance-use Veterans mental health transition intervention and liaison service
https://www.scottyslittlesoldiers.co.uk/ a military charity to help UK armed forces personnel’s bereaved children.
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