Veteran Support
The provision of tailored support for veterans is crucial to ensuring the well-being of those who have served their country. These areas address the specific needs and challenges faced by veterans as a result of their military service. Specific and tailored support could include:
- Support for addiction
- Relationship breakdown
- Debt
- Homelessness
- Post-traumatic stress
- Depression/Anxiety
- Disability
There are a range of charities that can provide specialist welfare, health and support services. The Armed forces charity SSAFA have created a Veteran Support tab on MECC/LEPH Link in order to develop and enhance the multi agency approach needed to meet the specific needs of veterans and their families.
Very Brief Intervention
Ask
Offering help to veterans can make a meaningful impact on their wellbeing. Here are some ways you can provide support:
Listen and Engage: Take the time to listen to veterans' experiences. Engage in conversations and show genuine interest in understanding their perspective.
- Express gratitude for their service and sacrifices. A simple "thank you for your service" can go a long way in acknowledging their contributions.
- Recognise the role of families in veterans' well-being. Offer support to their families and caregivers, as they play a crucial role in providing care and understanding.
- Understand that not all veterans may want to talk about their experiences. Respect their boundaries and offer support when they're ready
Support for families: Supporting the families of veterans is crucial, as they often play a significant role in the well-being and transition of veterans after their service.
- Families of veterans can often access dedicated and specific support, this could include: benefits advice, mental health support, peer support and financial and legal assistance.
Assist
Offer Assistance: Offering help to veterans is about building connections, showing empathy, and creating a supportive environment.
Q: Did you know that the armed forces charity SSAFA can help provide practical, financial and emotional support for service personnel, veterans and their families, would you like some further information on this?
Act
Connect with Resources: Inform veterans or their families about available resources, services, and support networks that can address any specific needs
SSAFA - The Armed forces Covenant Fund Trust
Contains links to support for:
- Alcohol
- Cost of living support
- Healthy Diet and Health Weight
- Mental Wellbeing
- Physical Health
- Smoking
- Social Isolation and Loneliness
- Suicide Prevention