We recognise the valuable contribution our military and ex-military personnel make and we will ensure they are never disadvantaged because of their service.

When accessing our services please inform the receptionist of the department you attend that you are military or ex-military so we can update your veteran status on your patient record.

Our armed forces lead, Maj (Retd) Kerry Gospel, serves as the point of contact to assist with your healthcare pathway and any additional healthcare requirements that have occurred as a result of your time in the military. This extends to direct family members (spouse, children).

Our commitment to the armed forces community:-

  • The armed forces community should not face disadvantage compared to other UK citizens in the provision of public and commercial services.
  • Family members should retain their place on any NHS waiting list if moved around the UK due to posting.
  • Veterans should receive priority for a condition which directly relates to their time in service, subject to clinical need.
  • Those injured in service should be cared for in a manner that reflects the nation's moral obligation to them, by healthcare professionals who have an understanding of the armed forces culture.

As a Trust we have signed the armed forces covenant, cementing our commitment to the armed forces community in our hospitals. We also hold the GOLD Employer Recognition Award for our support to employees and give additional benefits to those who have a reserve commitment.

We are also accredited as Veteran Aware by The Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance. The Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA) is a group of NHS providers, that have agreed to be exemplars of the best possible healthcare for, and support to the Armed Forces Community.

Our commitment to the covenant means that the armed forces community should not face any disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of healthcare and that special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those such as the injured and the bereaved.

NHS Veterans' Mental Health Complex Treatment Service (CTS)

 

 

  • Op COURAGE is a specialist NHS mental health service designed to help serving personnel due to leave the military, reservists, armed forces veterans and their families.
  • Op NOVA delivered by the Forces Employment Charity and commissioned by NHS England, provides support for veterans who are in contact with the justice system, enabling them to access the services they need.
  • OP RESTORE The Veterans Physical Health and Wellbeing Service is an NHS service providing specialist care and treatment to veterans who have physical health problems as a result of their time in the armed forces.
  • Op FORTITUDE is the government-backed centralised referral pathway designed to support veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.