Struggling Armed Forces veterans with mental health needs will get an extra £10million help
To mark the centenary of the First World War Armistice, the Government will give an extra £10m to the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust this year
SUPPORT services for struggling veterans will get an extra £10m the Defence Secretary announced yesterday , to mark the Armistice centenary.
Gavin Williamson said the windfall – confirmed at last week’s budget – will fund a new phone outreach service plus a support group for the family of veterans who have taken their own lives.
And charities carrying out work to boost the mental health of former servicemen and women can bid for funding.
The new measures were announced ahead of this year’s historic Remembrance Sunday – marking 100 years since the end of World War I.
Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson, said: “As we mark the centenary of the end of the First World War, it’s absolutely vital that we remain resolute in our support for those who have served our country so well.
“We must never forget the sacrifices they have made. So I am determined that the Ministry of Defence does all that we can to ensure those who struggle after serving their country are properly supported.
“One death through mental health issues is one too many.
“That’s why we have stepped up our support, ahead of this historic Remembrance Sunday, with a batch of new measures to help our former service personnel and their families.”
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A specialist Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund has been established to distribute the money, working with the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, Williamson said.
As part of the package of measures, the Veterans Gateway, the one-stop-shop for veterans’ support, will trial a new outreach service.
Under the trial, the Gateway will now proactively call veterans to check in with them to see how they are, and to inform them of where support can be found.
It mirrors the US Marine Corps veterans service which make six proactive calls for every one that they receive.
Money will also go on a new scheme with SSAFA to promote a new support group for bereaved families, providing specialist help to families who have lost a loved one to suicide.
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