With over 58,000 military veterans in Dorset, Dorset Council is reminding current and former members of the Armed Forces, and their families, that support is available for them.
Whether they served in Afghanistan, or in other conflicts, news of the withdrawal of military forces has significantly impacted on the wellbeing of many veterans and their families.
Through its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant and links to health and wellbeing services including charities, Dorset Council is encouraging anyone affected to reach out for support.
Cllr David Walsh, Chairman of the Dorset Armed Forces Covenant Board, said:
“The scenes pictured on the TV and in the media have brought back memories and raised questions for our Armed Forces that have served, or are serving.
“There are a number of organisations, in Dorset and further afield, which can offer support or just listen. If you are affected by recent events please reach out.
“The whole nation has a moral obligation to the Armed Forces, and their families. They deserve our respect and support, and fair treatment. Through the Dorset Armed Forces Covenant we are working to ensure all members of the armed forces, past and present, are treated fairly.”
Organisations offering support
The following organisations can offer support. All calls are free from a landline unless stated otherwise. At immediate risk of danger to life always call 999.
Op Courage
Op Courage provides a service to ensure members of the Armed Forces community are supported to access services that provide health and social care support.
Dorset Healthcare Armed Forces – Health and Wellbeing
Helping people in the Armed Forces Community access health and social care services across Dorset.
Veterans’ Gateway
Veterans’ Gateway is a 24/7 first point of contact for all welfare needs. From healthcare and housing to employability, and more. Call 0808 802 1212
Combat Stress
Combat Stress offers specialist treatment and support for veterans from every service and conflict, focusing on those with complex mental health issues related to their military service. Call 0800 138 1619
Mind
Mind offers mental health support and information call 0300 123 3393 or text ‘Shout’ to 85258 (calls cost 3p to 40p per minute)
Citizens Advice
Free, confidential and impartial advice to help people with issues such as debt, housing, families and relationships. Call 0800 144 8848
PTSD Resolution
PTSD Resolution offer free, rapid and effective therapeutic support to Veterans, Reservists and family members. Call 0300 302 0551 (calls cost 3p to 40p per minute)
Samaritans
Call the Samaritans for 24-hour support, seven days a week on 116 123.
SSAFA
Welfare, health and support services, for the UK military’s serving personnel, veterans, and their families, call SSAFA on 0800 260 6767
Veterans UK
Part of the Ministry of Defence and offers free support for veterans and their families, call 0808 1914 218
Urgent Help for Veterans
Signposts to organisations which can provide urgent help
Age UK NSW Dorset
Call Age UK North South West Dorset 01305 269444 for information and advice and a range of support services for the over 55s
Get support at the ‘On Track’ event this October
This year’s ‘On Track’ event takes place at the Tank Museum, Bovington on 7 October 2021. It is open to serving military, emergency services, veterans and families and can be attended online or in person.
The event will provide techniques and useful contacts to help build mental resilience, with talks, exhibitors and workshops.
There will be a daytime event tailored towards members of the military and emergency services and an evening event for members of the public.
Tickets cost £1 each for military, veterans and emergency services. £5 each for regular tickets.
Find out more and how to book.
PLEASE SUPPORT US FOR JUST £2 A MONTH
