Veterans from across the South East facing a mental health crisis can quickly access dedicated help and support thanks to the introduction of a new High Intensity Service (HIS) that is being rolled out across the South East (SE) of England by the NHS Solent Trust.
The service, which launched in November 2020, provides former service personnel with access to rapid support, regardless of length of service. The individual or their loved ones can call NHS 111 if they need urgent mental health support or are in a crisis, and say they are a veteran to trigger the support. Mental Health practitioners in 111 offer dedicated mental health support and refer into the rest of the HIS team. The pathfinder, that links with existing mental health services for veterans, will be available across Hampshire, Sussex, Surrey, Kent, Berkshire, Oxford and Buckinghamshire.
The council has complied a list of local and national support services for veterans.
Services cover housing, finance, health (including mental health), employment, education, starting a business and legal assistance.
An HM Armed Forces Veteran Card is a way to prove that you served in the UK Armed Forces. The card can make it quicker and easier to apply for support as a veteran.
It’s free to apply. You can currently only apply for a Veteran Card if you have a UK address. Veterans who do not have a UK address will be able to apply later this year. For more information please visit https://www.gov.uk/veteran-card
A new railcard will be available to veterans from Armistice Day this year, Wednesday 11 November. The card gives veterans a third off their train fare.