Veterans Welfare Service

VWS is the MOD’s Single Welfare Provider across the UK and Republic of Ireland, via a network of Welfare Managers. The VWS provides advice across a range of issues to former Service Personnel. It may be contacted via the Veterans UK Helpline number 0808 1914 2 18.

Urgent help for veterans in a crisis

All Veterans needing advice in a crisis can contact the following organisations for help and assistance. If you would like some additional help now, see: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/urgent-help-for-veterans-in-a-crisis/urgent-help-for-veterans-in-a-crisis to help you access a wide range of advice and support.

Partner Organisations

Veterans UK also works in partnership with the Department of Health and several Ex-Service organisations to provide support for veterans. Including:

NHS. If you have concerns over your health that you think are linked to your service in the Armed Forces, you should contact your GP and discuss this with him or her, making sure that you say you are an Armed Forces veteran. Remember that, under the Armed Forces Covenant, you are entitled to priority treatment in the NHS for conditions linked to your military service, subject to the clinical needs of others
In England call 111 when it’s less urgent than 999 or access their website on: nhs choices.co.uk
In Scotland call 111 when it’s less urgent than 999 or access their website on: nhs24.com
In Wales call 0845 46 47 when it’s less urgent than 999 or access their website on: nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk
In Northern Ireland call 999 or access nidirect on: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/information-and-services/health-and-well-being.htm .

The Royal British Legion. The Royal British Legion provides lifelong information, advice and support for the Armed Forces community and their families. You may access their Helpline on 0808 802 8080. Its opening hours are from 08:00 to 20.00 (7 days a week). Or access their website via: britishlegion.org

SSAFA operate a confidential Forces Line. All Members of the Armed Forces community may call this number to discuss any issues of concern in confidence. Forcesline – 0800 731 4880 or 01980 630 854. Its opening hours are 10:30 to 19:30 Monday to Friday (including Bank Holidays) or access their website via: ssafa.org.uk

Combat Stress. Their 24 hour Mental Health Helpline provides assistance on many issues including benefits, housing and welfare: 01372 587 000 or access their website via: combatstress.org.uk

Big White Wall. Big White Wall is an online early intervention service for people in psychological distress. It is provided in partnership with the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. It combines social networking principles with a choice of clinically informed interventions to improve mental wellbeing. It can be accessed 24/7 and has staff called Wall Guides who ensure the full engagement, safety and anonymity of all members. This service is free to veterans. +44 (0)20 70601677 or access their website via: bigwhitewall.com

The Service Leaver Guide. The Service Leaver Guide is provided by Veterans UK to all serving personnel prior to leaving the Armed Forces. It is updated on a regular basis and is a recognised source of valuable information. It you do not have a copy, or would like to see the most up to date version please visit: UK/Publications

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