️ Op COURAGE: The Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Service

Op COURAGE is an NHS specialist service designed to support veterans, reservists, and service leavers in England. Staffed by professionals experienced with the Armed Forces community, it offers:(NHS Veterans’ Mental Health South East, nhs.uk)

  • Assistance transitioning from military to civilian life
  • Treatment for mental health conditions, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression
  • Support for substance misuse and addictions
  • Access to other NHS services and local charities for housing, employment, and financial advice
  • Support for families affected by a veteran’s mental health challenges(nhs.uk)

In the North of England, you can contact Op COURAGE at:(cntw.nhs.uk)

To be eligible, you must have served in the UK Armed Forces for at least one day and be registered with a GP in England or willing to register. (nhs.uk)

️ Combat Stress

Combat Stress is the UK’s leading charity for veterans’ mental health, focusing on those with complex issues arising from military service. Their services include:(combatstress.org.uk, combatstress.org.uk)

  • Clinical treatment for PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance misuse
  • 24/7 helpline for veterans and their families
  • Online self-help resources
  • Residential and community-based treatment programs(combatstress.org.uk, Wikipedia)

Contact Combat Stress at:(combatstress.org.uk)

Valour: New National Veterans Support Network

The UK government has announced the establishment of “Valour,” a new national network of support centres for military veterans, backed by £50 million in funding. This initiative aims to offer consistent access to services in housing, employment, health, and welfare for the country’s two million veterans. Regional field officers will coordinate efforts between charities, service providers, and governmental bodies. (Latest news & breaking headlines)

Togetherall: Online Mental Health Support

Togetherall is a free, anonymous, 24/7 online platform offering:(nhs.uk)

  • Peer support forums moderated by trained professionals
  • Self-help courses and resources
  • Access to trained counselors(nhs.uk, combatstress.org.uk)

Available to all serving personnel, reservists, veterans, and their families. (nhs.uk)

Veteran-Friendly GP Practices

Many veterans hesitate to seek help due to concerns about being misunderstood. The Veteran Friendly Accreditation scheme helps GP practices identify and support veterans effectively. Currently, about half of England’s GP practices are accredited. You can check with your local GP in Wallsend to see if they are part of this scheme. (The Guardian)

Local Support in Wallsend

While specific local services in Wallsend may vary, contacting Op COURAGE or Combat Stress is a good starting point. They can guide you to nearby resources and support tailored to your needs.

Immediate Support

If you or someone you know is in crisis:

  • Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7)
  • Emergency Services: Call 999(Wikipedia)

Remember, reaching out is a sign of strength. Support is available, and you’re not alone.