£1.8m NHS training tailored to needs of armed forces

THOUSANDS of veterans, military personnel and their families are set to receive better healthcare from the NHS - with staff trained to help them with the unique challenges they may face.

- BY DAVID WILLIAMSON Chief Political Commentator

In addition to specialist care for physical injuries, there is growing awareness of the need for mental health support for conditions including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. As part of a £1.8million programme launched as the country marks Remembrance Sunday, NHS staff will be trained to identify patients with a background in the armed forces and give tailored care.

Louise Ansari, who runs Healthwatch England, said: “We hear from veterans who struggle to get the care they need because doctors and NHS staff aren't familiar with their unique medical needs, often resulting from injuries, stresses or traumas that they experienced during their service years.