Navigating Healthcare and Benefits: a Veteran’s Guide
Collaborative Post
For UK veterans, there can be many challenges when adjusting to civilian life. One of the most common challenges that veterans face is getting access to healthcare, benefits, and support services – all services that many veterans find themselves needing after leaving the armed forces. This post will show you how to navigate healthcare and benefits, including key resources, common challenges, and tips for making successful applications. Keep reading to find out more.
Understanding NHS Healthcare Access for Veterans
Many veterans return home in need of healthcare. Wait times are notoriously long for NHS services in the UK right now, but you should know that veterans can access priority NHS treatment, GP services, and mental health services tailored for ex-service personnel. Initiatives like Op COURAGE are set up specifically to provide mental health services for veterans and can be a highly valuable service for those experiencing wide-ranging mental health issues after leaving the armed forces.
Key Benefits and Financial Support Available
It is also important to be aware of the benefits and financial support made available to veterans. The War Pension Scheme is available to those made ill or injured through service before April 2005, with the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) covering service after this date. These schemes provide financial relief in the form of payments that recognise the impact of the injury or illness (the amount depends on the severity and long-term effect.
If you were injured in the line of duty, you could look to make military claims for compensation. However, it is important to e aware that these claims can be complicated and there are strict deadlines in place. This is why it is a good idea to seek guidance from a specialist law firm before making an application. There are also charities that offer free advice for veterans making claims.
Charities and Organisations Supporting Veterans
Following on from this, it is helpful to be aware of the charities and organisations that offer support to veterans. There are many organisations that can provide free advice, support, and resources on key areas like healthcare access, housing, mental health, employment, and financial claims. Trusted UK charities worth speaking to if you need any kind of support include:
- Help for Heroes
- Royal British Legion
- SSAFA
These organisations can offer free advice, help with applications, and provide ongoing advocacy.
Returning to civilian life can be challenging for UK veterans, particularly those who return home with an injury, illness, or mental health issue. Fortunately, there is a lot of financial support, advice, and guidance available to veterans when you know where to look. Hopefully, the information in this post will be useful and help you get the support you need and start to build a comfortable new life for yourself following service in the armed forces.
Photo by Evgeny Smirnov on Unsplash