Health & Wellbeing support for veterans and their families

This week: support for veterans and their families

As we remember and thank those who have served in the Armed Forces, it is reassuring to know that the NHS offers dedicated support for veterans, reservists, service leavers and their families. You do not need to have served for years to qualify—if you have served at least one full day in the UK Armed Forces, you are considered a veteran.

Two key NHS services

The NHS provides specialist support through two main programmes:

Op COURAGE is available to veterans, people preparing to leave the Forces, reservists and family members. It can provide mental-health assessment and treatment, and can also help people access wider support for issues such as housing, finances, employment, relationships and social wellbeing.

Op RESTORE offers specialist NHS care for physical health conditions connected to service. It is available no matter when the problem started or when someone left the Forces, and it can also help families and carers find appropriate support.

How to access support

Many veterans’ services are offered through your GP practice, which is often the first place to start. Your GP can identify you as a veteran in your medical record and refer you to the right service.

Op COURAGE: You can refer yourself, or ask a family member, friend, GP or charity to make the referral for you.

Op RESTORE: Access is through a referral from your GP.

Family members and carers: They can also be supported, particularly where a loved one’s service has affected the whole family.

More than medical care

These services recognise that health is about more than symptoms. Op COURAGE and Op RESTORE can help connect veterans and families with support for practical challenges, including housing, money, employment and social isolation.

For veterans facing homelessness or at risk of losing their home, Op FORTITUDE provides a single referral route to housing and related support.

A simple message

Whether someone served for one day or a full career, left the Forces recently or many years ago, help is available. If you or someone in your family needs support, speak to your GP practice—or contact Op COURAGE directly for mental-health and wellbeing support.