With A Change of Government We Need To Change The Focus of Support To The Military Community.

Offering compensation and designing dedicated support and treatment services for UK military veterans and service personnel with lived experience of Military Sexual Trauma (MST), In-service and post -service suicidal ideation, Mild and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), and Gulf War Syndrome is crucial as we move into the next half of the decade. Acknowledging these conditions validates the experiences of veterans and service personnel, recognising the sacrifices they made for their country. Providing compensation and support is a moral responsibility, ensuring that those who served are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. Specialised treatment for MST, suicidal ideation, TBIs and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome could significantly improve both physical and mental health outcomes for affected veterans. Early intervention in all of the above and dedicated support services could help reduce the high rates of suicide among veterans by addressing underlying feelings of betrayal and abandonment. Effective treatment and support services could help veterans recover and regain functionality, improving their overall quality of life. Compensation could alleviate financial burdens, allowing veterans to focus on recovery without the added stress of economic insecurity. By providing dedicated services, the stigma associated with seeking help for MST, mental health issues, and TBIs could be reduced. Knowing that specialised support is available could encourage more veterans to come forward and report their experiences, leading to better data and understanding of their problems. Prompt and specialised care could prevent the escalation of conditions like TBIs and PTSD, reducing the long-term impact on veterans' health. Gulf War Syndrome and TBIs can lead to chronic health issues; dedicated services could help manage these conditions more effectively, reducing long-term healthcare costs. Dedicated services could help foster peer support networks where veterans could share experiences and coping strategies, creating a sense of community and belonging. These services could also extend support to families, helping them understand and assist in the recovery process. In summary, compensation and support services ensure that the legal and policy frameworks recognise and uphold the rights of veterans to receive adequate care and support. The Establishment of comprehensive support systems could set a precedent for how veterans are treated, which in turn would promote continuous improvements in veteran care policies. Data gathered from these specialised services could also inform future policies and improve understanding of MST, TBIs, and other conditions. Dedicated services can lead to the development of innovative treatment methods and therapies tailored specifically for military-related conditions. Supporting veterans’ recovery can help them reintegrate into the workforce, contributing to the economy. Effective early treatment and management could reduce long-term healthcare costs associated with chronic conditions resulting from military service. Providing comprehensive support and compensation honours the commitment made to those who have served, reflecting the nation’s gratitude and respect for their sacrifices. By recognising and addressing these needs, the UK could ensure that its veterans receive the care and support they deserve, reflecting a commitment to their well-being and truly honouring their sacrifice and service.

Tony Wright CEO Forward Assist