 New 24-Hour Veteran Support Helpline launched today
Veterans with mental health problems will get targeted support from today with the launch of the new Combat Stress Support Helpline, being delivered by Rethink Mental Illness and funded by the Government.
Health Min ister Simon Burns today unveiled a new 24-hour freephone helpline number, 0800 138 1619, to help veterans and their families access expert advice from people trained and experienced in dealing with ex-Service men and women and their often complex mental health needs.
The Government is giving £200,000 to fund the running of a one year pilot of the helpline. This reinforces the Government’s commitment to support the health needs of all veterans who have given so much for this country. The helpline, announced in October 2010, was supported by Dr Andrew Murrison in his review into the provision of mental health services for veterans. The Department of Health has nominated the charities Combat Stress and Rethink Mental Illness, both leaders in their respective fields of supporting veterans and those with a mental illness, to run the service together. With their combined expertise, the helpline will provide:
· Round the clock support for veterans;
· Diverse ways to access mental health support including advice via telephone, and later this year text and email;
· Support to veterans’ families, whose lives can be affected as a result of mental health problems, with improved support to help them to access mental health services in their local area; and
· Provide assistance in accessing further advice on other social problems affecting veterans including housing and employment advice.
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