We are an Armed Forces veteran friendly accredited GP practice.
Dr Gareth Dawe is our GP lead on this.
Armed Forces Veteran Friendly Accreditation – FAQs
What is a veteran?
A veteran is anyone who has served for at least one day in the Armed Forces, whether regular or reserve. It means the same as ‘ex service personnel’.
Whilst many aspects of health need are the same as the general public, there are sometimes significant differences, particularly in relation to conditions attributable to service life and the impact upon families. These differences can be reflected in the way in which healthcare is delivered, the range and types of some specific services provided and the long-term impact upon patients and families.
What is the Armed Forces Covenant?
The Armed Forces Covenant sets the following goals with respect to healthcare:
- The Armed Forces community should enjoy the same standard of, and access to healthcare as that received by any other UK citizen in the area they live.
- Family members should retain their place on any NHS waiting list, if moved around the UK due to the service person being posted.
- Veterans should receive priority treatment for a condition which relates to their service, subject to clinical need.
- Those injured in service should be cared for in a way that reflects the nation’s moral obligation to them, by healthcare professionals who understand the Armed Forces culture.
The Covenant is an important aspect of our approach to care, especially as the Armed Forces community can be at a disadvantage due to their mobility, and frequent moves etc.
What dedicated NHS services are available to veterans?
There are a variety of services available for Veterans, which can be found by clicking on the links below:
Op COURAGE: The Veterans’ Mental Health and Wellbeing Service
Op RESTORE: The Veterans’ Physical Health and Wellbeing Service
Meeting the Healthcare Needs of Veterans A guide for General Practitioners, supported by the Royal College of General Practitioners, the Royal British Legion, and Combat Stress.
Further information on NHS services for the Armed Forces Community can be found on the NHS website.
Other veterans’ services:
Op NOVA: Support for Veterans in the Justice System
Op FORTITUDE: Pathway to Prevent Veteran Homelessness