Blog

Podcast

North East Veterans who are struggling with illness or injury deserve comprehensive support to aid their recovery. The North East offers a range of specialised services designed to address the unique needs of those who have served in the Armed Forces.

These services encompass mental health support, physical rehabilitation, housing assistance, and financial aid, ensuring that veterans receive the care they need. Organisations committed to supporting the wellbeing of veterans and their families play a crucial role in the recovery process.

Understanding how to access these services is vital for veterans navigating their recovery journey. This guide aims to simplify the process by outlining key services, eligibility criteria, and contact information, ensuring that veterans receive the support they deserve.

Key Takeaways

• Veterans in the North East can access a range of specialised services to support their recovery.
• Mental health support and physical rehabilitation are crucial components of the care provided.
• Organisations in the North East are dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of veterans and their families.
• Understanding eligibility criteria and contact information is essential for accessing these services.
• Veterans deserve comprehensive care that acknowledges their service and addresses their specific health needs.

Understanding Support for Sick and Injured Veterans in the North East

Understanding the support available for sick and injured veterans in the North East is crucial for their recovery. The region has established comprehensive support systems through various covenants and partnerships.

Who Qualifies as a Veteran?

A veteran is defined as anyone who has served in the Armed Forces, either as a regular or reserve, regardless of age or length of service. This broad definition encompasses individuals across various age groups and service backgrounds.

The Armed Forces Community Covenant

The Armed Forces Covenant Trust is a commitment by local authorities, including All North East Council, to support veterans. It outlines the responsibilities and service provisions offered to veterans, underpinned by a Veterans Action Plan that guides the support provided by the council and its partners.

Veterans Recovery College: Your First Point of Contact

The Veterans Recovery College serves as a crucial first point of contact for veterans seeking support. This service, provided by Anxious Minds is a leading provider of support to veterans and their families in the North East.

Mental Health Services for North East Veterans

Veterans in the North East have access to a range of mental health services designed to support their wellbeing. These services are crucial in addressing the unique psychological challenges faced by those who have served in the armed forces.

Anxious Minds Veterans Counselling Services

Provide tailored clinical treatment and compassionate support to veterans of the British Armed Forces and their families focusing on both low-level and complex mental health challenges arising during or after military service. For many, the transition to civilian life is far from easy. The psychological impact of service can linger long after the uniform is retired, and without the right care, trauma can take a devastating toll. Call them on 0191 308 4030

Op COURAGE: Specialist Mental Health Support

Op COURAGE is a specialist mental health service developed by veterans, for veterans. It provides comprehensive care and support for those who are leaving or have left the armed forces. Led by Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, Op COURAGE offers a single point of contact for veterans across the North of England, available via telephone on 0300 373 33 32 or email at [email protected], from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week.

Combat Stress and PTSD Support

Combat Stress offers specialised support for veterans dealing with PTSD and trauma-related conditions. Their 24-hour helpline provides immediate assistance and advice on mental health issues, ensuring that veterans and their families can access help whenever they need it.

The Veteran Recovery College

The Veteran Recovery College provides a holistic approach to mental health recovery through a range of services, including counselling, addiction support, and outdoor therapy. The college also runs up to 15 support groups weekly, fostering valuable peer connections that are essential for mental health recovery.

Physical Recovery and Rehabilitation Resources

Veterans in the North East have access to a range of physical recovery and rehabilitation resources designed to support their health and wellbeing. These resources are crucial for helping veterans recover from injuries and illnesses sustained during their service.

The NHS plays a vital role in providing these services, ensuring that veterans receive the care they need. The following sections outline the key resources available.

NHS Services for Veterans

The NHS provides specialised services for veterans across the North East, ensuring priority treatment for conditions related to their service when clinically appropriate. These services are designed to address the unique health needs of veterans, providing them with comprehensive care and support.

Veteran Friendly GP Practices

Veteran Friendly GP Practices have been established throughout the region, with dedicated clinical leads for veteran health who understand the unique challenges faced by former service personnel. These practices actively identify veterans by asking “Have you served?” during registration and consultations, ensuring appropriate care pathways are followed. Staff at these practices receive specialist training to meet the health commitments outlined in the Armed Forces Covenant.

For more information about veteran friendly practices, you can visit the Royal College of General Practitioners website.

Specialist Physical Rehabilitation Services

Physical rehabilitation services in the North East include specialised physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and pain management programmes tailored to veterans’ needs. These services often work in conjunction with mental health support, recognising the interconnection between physical and psychological wellbeing. Veterans can access information about these services through their GP, the Veterans’ Gateway, or directly through NHS websites dedicated to veteran care.

Housing and Accommodation Support for Veterans

Stable housing is essential for the well-being of sick and injured veterans, and various support services are available in the North East. The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging, but with the right housing assistance, veterans can better navigate this process.

Joint Service Housing Advice

The Joint Service Housing Advice Office provides comprehensive guidance for veterans transitioning from military to civilian accommodation. This service helps navigate the often complex housing market, offering personalised advice for veterans at different stages of their housing journey.

The Future Accommodation Model

The Ministry of Defence’s Future Accommodation Model represents a forward-thinking approach to housing support, offering flexible options such as renting near work, owning near work, or owning away from work. These options are designed to provide greater choice and stability for veterans and their families.

Mortgage Support for Armed Forces Personnel

Armed Forces personnel can benefit from mortgage support that includes the ability to rent out their homes when deployed without changing their residential mortgage terms. This flexibility is crucial for personnel who may face challenges due to their service commitments.

In conclusion, the North East offers a range of housing and accommodation support services tailored to the needs of veterans, ensuring they have the stability needed for recovery and rehabilitation.

Community Support and Social Connections

The recovery journey of sick and injured veterans is significantly enhanced by community support and social connections. These connections play a vital role in combating isolation and providing practical and emotional support.

Veterans Breakfast Clubs

Veterans Breakfast Clubs have become a cornerstone of community support across the North East. These clubs offer regular informal gatherings where veterans can connect over a shared meal. They are free to join, with participants only paying for their breakfast, and provide a relaxed environment where veterans can build friendships with others who understand their experiences. The Veteran Recovery College has a club on Fridays at 10:30

Forward Assist and Peer Support Groups

Forward Assist delivers innovative peer-led support groups and structured activities designed to reduce social isolation among veterans in the North East. Their approach combines practical support with community engagement, helping veterans navigate civilian life while building new skills and connections.

Royal British Legion Community Activities

The Royal British Legion offers a wide range of community activities for veterans and their families throughout the North East region. Their community support includes social events, hobby groups, and outings that help veterans maintain active social lives during recovery.

Financial Assistance and Benefits for Injured Veterans

The financial wellbeing of veterans is a critical aspect of their overall recovery from illness and injury. Various schemes and benefits are available to support veterans and their families through challenging times.

War Pension Scheme

The War Pension Scheme provides compensation for UK veterans injured as a result of their service in the armed forces. It offers regular payments to support their ongoing care needs, recognising the financial impact of service-related injuries and illnesses.

State Pension Protection for Veterans and Spouses

State Pension protection measures have been implemented for veterans and their spouses, particularly benefiting those who have served overseas. The Department for Work and Pensions offers National Insurance Credits for armed forces spouses and civil partners who have accompanied their partners on overseas postings.

Charitable Grants and Financial Support

Various charitable organisations provide grants and financial support to veterans facing hardship due to illness or injury. ABF The Soldier’s Charity offers grants specifically for the wellbeing of veterans or their carers, addressing immediate financial needs during recovery.

Understanding and accessing these financial support systems can significantly reduce stress during recovery, allowing veterans to focus on their health and rehabilitation. Organisations like the Royal British Legion and SSAFA offer financial advice services tailored to veterans’ unique circumstances.

Next Steps: Accessing Help for Sick and Injured Veterans

Recovery support for North East veterans is available through multiple channels, ensuring they receive the help they need. The first step towards accessing this support can be challenging, but there are several resources available to guide them.

Veterans can start by contacting the Veterans Recovery College (0191 308 4030). Registering with a Veteran Friendly GP practice is also beneficial, as it allows for referrals to specialist health and mental health services.

Additional support is available through Op COURAGE (0300 373 33 32) for mental health issues and the Armed Forces Outreach Service for comprehensive advice on housing, employment, and benefits. Veterans and their families are encouraged to reach out to these and other organisations for advice and contact information.

FAQ

What support is available for veterans struggling with mental health issues?

Organisations like Combat Stress and Op COURAGE offer specialist mental health support, including counselling and therapy, to help veterans manage conditions like PTSD and other mental health issues.

How can I access housing support as a veteran?

The Joint Service Housing Advice office provides guidance on housing options, while the Future Accommodation Model offers a range of accommodation choices tailored to the needs of armed forces personnel.

Are there any financial assistance programmes available for veterans?

Yes, the War Pension Scheme provides financial support to veterans who have suffered an injury or illness as a result of their service. Additionally, charitable grants are available from organisations like the Royal British Legion.

Can I get help with employment or training as a veteran?

The Royal British Legion and other organisations offer a range of services, including employment support and training, to help veterans transition back into civilian life.

How can I get in touch with other veterans in my area?

Veterans Breakfast Clubs and Forward Assist peer support groups provide opportunities for veterans to connect with others who have shared similar experiences.

What NHS services are available to veterans?

The NHS provides a range of services for veterans, including specialist physical rehabilitation services and mental health support. Veteran Friendly GP Practices also offer tailored care for veterans.

How can I access support for my family as a veteran?

Many organisations, including the Royal British Legion, offer support and resources for veterans’ families, including advice on benefits and financial assistance.