If you’re a veteran or ex-forces, let your GP know. This will help us to give you the best care we can.
Your GP may ask to see your military medical records. This will be kept confidential.
As well as giving you care, your GP may suggest you visit specialist mental and physical health services, or armed forces charities.
You’ll be able to speak to people who:
- understand military life
- are from the armed forces community, or work closely with them
- will work to get you the care you need
You can also find out more about healthcare for the armed forces community.
Top Tips for Veterans
Click here to view top tips for veterans
Other Resources and Services
- NHS advice for service leavers
- NHS mental health support for veterans
- Veteran’s Gateway for local services and support
- Help for sight loss from Blind Veterans UK
Out of Hours Support:
- Samaritans freephone 116 123 (24/7) or email – to access confidential emotional support for feelings of distress, despair or suicide thoughts.
- Big White Wall – a safe online service providing access to millions with anxiety, depression and other common mental health issues. Free for serving personnel, veterans, family members and carers.
- Shout – a crisis text support service for people in the military community who are struggling and need immediate support to get through a crisis. Text CONTACT to 85258.
- Forces line telephone helpline: 0800 7314880 (Monday – Friday 10:30 – 19:30) or email. For serving personnel, former members of the Armed Forces and their families.
- NHS 111 – to access medical help fast but when it’s not a 999 emergency, telephone 111 (available 24 hours). To access information from the NHS on conditions, treatments, local services and healthy living following the link to NHS Choices.
- Veterans UK – to seek information on claiming AFCS, Armed Forces Independence Payment, Medical Discharges and Pension Forecast Requests.