Veterans, serving personnel, reservists and their families can have a unique set of circumstances and past experiences that require more specialist support. This may be for their mental health or for other life challenges that may be faced.
Local supports…
Rutland Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast club – For support and camaraderie. Meet in Oakham once a month.
https://afvbc.com/club/rutland-armed-forces-veterans-breakfast-club
Veteran’s Wellbeing Hub – Based in Loughborough Wellbeing centre with a Rutland satellite service, for advice, support on guidance on many day to day life worries including mental health, money, housing and more.
https://www.thewellbeingcafe.org/veterans-wellbeing-hub
National Supports…
NHS Op COURAGE: Mental Health and Wellbeing Service – Get in touch with them directly to see how they can help you or your family.
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/armed-forces-community/mental-health/veterans-reservists/
Royal British Legion The Veteran’s Gateway – Self-help resources and a 24/7 phoneline to speak to someone for some guidance about where is the best place to start. Call 0808 802 1212
https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-support/who-we-help/veterans-gateway
Veteran’s Welfare Service (VWS) – Part of the Minstry of Defence (MoD), Veteren’s UK. Support to all veterans, their families and carers. Phoneline and 1 to 1 support.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/veterans-welfare-service#if-you-need-help
The Poppy Network – Supporting veterans with health conditions into employment. https://www.poppyfactory.org/
Specific Support for family members…
The Ripple Pond – Supporting adult family members of physically or psychologically injured British Armed Forces personnel and veterans. https://www.theripplepond.org/
General Local Support…
Pepper’s and the Neighbourhood Mental Health Cafe – On the High Street in Oakham, drop in sessions for people struggling with their mental health, for a chat and a cuppa. Several welcoming activities throughout the month to get confidence and support. https://www.peppersasafeplace.co.uk/
There are particular drop in times for anyone struggling with their mental health and needing immediate support, and transport could also be provided. https://www.peppersasafeplace.co.uk/our-services/neighbourhood-mental-health-cafe
Get Out and About – Sometimes it’s a listening ear and knowing you’re not alone that starts you back on the right track. Sometimes you might need a helping hand getting out and about, to get out enjoying the old things you used to love doing, or getting into something new. Check out the local area to see what’s about… https://services.thejoyapp.com/
Free NHS Talking Therapies – Refer yourself for NHS Talking Therapies. For those who live in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland and aged 16 or over. You do not need to see a GP first and can call directly. Please call VITA Health Group on 03300 945595. Or visit their website for more information or refer online… https://www.vitahealthgroup.co.uk/nhs-services/nhs-mental-health/leicester-leicestershire-rutland/
Op Community – Local Support for Veterans and their Families https://www.leicspart.nhs.uk/service/op-community/
Extra support…
If you are still struggling, please contact the surgery to book a review. You may be offered an appointment with our dedicated Mental Health Practitioner to decide what other support you may need. In some cases, medication may be needed to support your mental health and aid your recovery.
Top tips for Veterans…