A new regional campaign to support the mental health of Armed Forces personnel and their families in Hull and East Yorkshire begins today (Monday, 20 September).
The campaign highlights the range of mental health services that are available across the region for any person who serves or has served in the Armed Forces, and their families. It encourages those who are concerned about or struggling with their mental health to access the support available.
The initiative launches as recent developments in Afghanistan increase concerns around the potential mental health impacts for veterans. Family and friends of Armed Services personnel are also urged to be vigilant regarding their loved ones’ mental health and encourage them to use support if needed, as well as seeking support themselves if they too need help.
A new website, www.HullandEastYorkshireVeteranSupport.co.uk – launched as part of the campaign – details all the mental health support services that are available in Hull and East Yorkshire for veterans, serving personnel, reservists and their families. A social media toolkit and digital leaflet created for local military charities will help promote the support available and raise awareness of the importance of getting support with mental health.
Veterans are also advised to inform their GP of their service in the Armed Forces as this opens up access to even more ex-forces’ care and treatment services.
The campaign is a Hull and East Riding-wide initiative by Hull City Council, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, NHS Hull CCG, NHS East Riding of Yorkshire CCG and regional military support groups and charities such as Hull 4 Heroes and East Yorkshire SSAFA.
Current or ex-military personnel who are worried about their health have access to a range of dedicated health services in Hull and East Yorkshire that can help. Local services offer those who have served in the Armed Forces care and treatment for a range of mental and physical health conditions. They’re provided by military and civilian experts to help ensure that clients receive care by people who understand their health needs and Armed Forces experiences.
Councillor Alan Gardiner, Hull City Council’s Armed Forces Veterans Champion and Councillor David Elvidge, East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Veterans Champion said:
“In Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire, we value our Armed Forces community and recognise the commitments and sacrifices that they have made. It is important for veterans and their families to know that they are not alone and that support is available, not only with anxiety and mental health, but on a range of issues which impact on the lives of our Armed Forces community. If you are looking for help, advice, or just need someone to talk to, please visit the HullandEastYorkshireVeteranSupport.co.uk website and contact one of the organisations for support.”
For further information visit www.HullandEastYorkshireVeteranSupport.co.uk
