Monday 24 June marked the start of Armed Forces Week, culminating in Armed Forces Day on Saturday 29 June. It’s a chance to show support for the people who make up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving personnel to service families, veterans and cadets.

Ahead of Armed Forces Day, we would like to remind you of some of the services available to veterans and service leavers.

Op COURAGE: The Veterans’ Mental Health and Wellbeing Service

After serving in the Armed Forces, some people find it hard to adjust to civvy street. If you’re struggling with your mental health and wellbeing, Op COURAGE: The Veterans’ Mental Health and Wellbeing Service is here to help. Available across England, Op COURAGE has helped nearly 30,000 people since 2017.

Op COURAGE is an NHS service developed with people who’ve served in the Armed Forces and experienced mental ill-health. Everyone at Op COURAGE is either from the Armed Forces or has experience of working with the military community. Whether you’re due to leave the Armed Forces, are a reservist or have already left the military, Op COURAGE can help.

Individuals can contact Midlands Op COURAGE directly to make an appointment or ask someone else, such as a family member, friend, charity or health professional to make it for them:

There is also an emotional support line available, open 24/7 by calling: 0300 323 0139

For further information, visit www.opcouragemidlands.nhs.uk

Veterans’ health campaign: ‘Say You Served’

When leaving the UK Armed Forces, it’s important to register with an NHS GP practice and tell them you have served. This means your GP can better understand your health, particularly any health problems relating to your time in service.

NHS England, together with the Office for Veterans’ Affairs, is encouraging veterans to let their GP practice know they have served in the UK Armed Forces; it’s important to ‘say you served’.

To find out more, visit www.nhs.uk/veterans