Veterans experiences of health and social care
Summary
Veterans often have unique healthcare needs stemming from their military service, including physical injuries, mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and difficulties navigating civilian healthcare systems.
Whilst there are some commitments from services to address these needs, there may still be gaps in provision.
Only 64% of veterans in England and Wales rate their health as good or very good, compared with 82% of the general public (ONS, 2021).
Key findings
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Veterans value peer-to-peer support and often rely on fellow veterans for assistance, such as attending medical appointments together.
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Veterans feel mental health services need to act quickly, as PTSD and related issues can occur suddenly, even years after the event.
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Veterans find it confusing to navigate multiple support services and prefer a single point of contact for assistance.
Recommendations
- Services are veteran aware- this can help with appropriate signposting.
- When designing services aimed at veterans this is co-produced with people with lived experience.
- Where possible, professionals introduce veterans directly to services.
Downloads
If you need the reports in a different format, please email hello@healthwatchdudley.co.uk or call 03000 111 001.
“I contacted Combat Stress at 2am one Saturday and someone stayed on the phone with me for several hours. They booked me an appointment to see someone on the Monday.”
Support and information for veterans
Royal British Legion
The Royal British Legion help members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families.
Tough Enough to Care
Providing advice and a safe space to talk.
text TOUGH to 85258
https://toughenoughtocare.help/
The Poppy Factory
The Poppy Factory helps veterans and their families on their journey towards employment.
0208 940 3305
Combat Stress
Combat Stress is the UK's leading veterans' mental health charity, the work we do is life-changing and often life-saving.
0800 138 1619
STEPWAY
STEPWAY is a military charity that supports all Veterans and their families in civilian life, no matter their background or circumstance.
West Midlands Wellbeing Centre, Merton Close, Oldbury, B68 8NG
Tuesday -Friday 10:00am- 3:00pm
0121 7922 723
