Veteran Support

Annually 22,000 armed forces personnel make the transition to civilian life. Most do it without difficulty, however some find it more difficult and may need some help from mental health and social care provision.

For support and advice visit:

• Veterans Mental Health (LPFT)
• SSAFA Lincolnshire
• Guide for Veterans (Business Cost Saver)
• Combat Stress

Find an Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club. Meet face to face in a relaxed, safe, social environment to enjoy breakfast and to combat loneliness. 

Gov.uk offers information on how to contact Veterans UK and their services. 

Veterans Gateway offers information, advice and support for veterans and their families. 

 

RAF Benevolent Fund

The RAF Benevolent Fund has begun several new initiatives alongside established support for members of the RAF family. These are some of the services they now offer:

• Check and chat phone calls
• Telephone friendship groups
• Listening and counselling service
• Financial Support
• Legal Advice Helpline
• Benefits advice and advocacy

All these services can be requested via their welfare helpline on 0300 222 5703 or by visiting the website.

 

Op COURAGE: The Veterans’ Mental Health and Wellbeing Service

After serving in the Armed Forces, some people find it hard to adjust to civilian life and experience mental health and wellbeing issues, Op COURAGE: The Veterans’ Mental Health and Wellbeing Service is here to help. Available across England, Op COURAGE has helped thousands of people since 2017.

Op COURAGE is an NHS service developed with people who have served in the Armed Forces and experienced mental ill-health. Everyone at Op COURAGE is either from the Armed Forces or has experience of working with the military community. Whether you are due to leave the Armed Forces, are a reservist or have already left the military, Op COURAGE can help.

Contact Op COURAGE Midlands directly to make an appointment or ask someone else, such as a family member, friend, charity or health professional to make it for you.

• Call: 0300 323 0137
• Email: mevs.mhm@nhs.net

There is also an emotional support line available, open 24/7 by calling: 0300 323 0139

For further information, visit www.opcouragemidlands.nhs.uk or view the attached Op COURAGE leaflet.

If you need help but do not live within the midlands area, visit www.nhs.uk/opcourage to find your local Op COURAGE service.