Armed Forces Veterans

Have you ever served in the military or live with someone who serves?

If the answer is yes, we want to hear from you.

Why it’s important to let us know you’re a veteran or part of a military household

Your military connection is relevant. If you have served in the Armed Forces as a regular or reservist, or live with someone who currently serves, telling us about your status helps us tailor your healthcare to meet your unique needs.

Military service can shape your health in ways that aren’t always visible. From physical injuries to mental health challenges, from frequent relocations to the stress of transition.  Veterans and their families often face distinct healthcare experiences. We want to know so we can more support you more effectively.

What happens when you tell us

We will add a code to your medical record to highlighting you are a military veteran. By identifying yourself as a military veteran or a member of a military household, you unlock access to services and support designed specifically for the Armed Forces community. Here’s how we help:

Fair access to NHS healthcare

Military life can disrupt the ongoing care you receive, especially if you’ve moved frequently, changed GPs, or had gaps in your medical records. We work to ensure that your service doesn’t disadvantage you or your family when accessing NHS services.

• We’ll flag your veteran status in your medical record (with your consent), so clinicians are aware of your background.
• We’ll help you navigate NHS systems more smoothly, ensuring you’re not overlooked or delayed in receiving care.
• We’ll uphold the Armed Forces Covenant, which promises fair treatment for those who serve or have served.

Support for physical injuries

If you’re living with injuries or long-term conditions attributable to your military service, we can help you access the right treatment and rehabilitation.

• We can refer you to Op RESTORE, the NHS Veterans Physical Health and Wellbeing Service, which offers specialist care for musculoskeletal injuries and other service-related conditions.
• We’ll ensure your care plan reflects your history and needs, whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, mobility issues, or recovery from surgery.

Tailored mental health services

Mental health support is most effective when it’s built around shared experience and understanding. We can connect you with services designed specifically for veterans and delivered by professionals who understand military life.

• We’ll signpost you to Op COURAGE, the NHS Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Service, which offers therapy, peer support, and crisis care.
• These services are staffed by people from the Armed Forces community or clinicians trained to work with veterans, ensuring your care is empathetic and informed.
• Whether you’re dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, we’ll help you find the right support.

Veteran-Specific Health Checks

Veterans often face health risks that differ from the general population. We offer health checks that are tailored to identify and address common issues found in veterans.

• These checks may include screening for hearing loss, joint problems, mental health concerns, and other service-related conditions.
• They’re designed to be proactive—catching potential issues early and helping you stay on top of your wellbeing.
• We’ll also review your lifestyle, medication, and any long-term conditions to ensure your care is comprehensive and personalised.

Help us to help you

By simply letting us know about your military connection, you enable us to provide better, more informed care. It’s confidential, respectful, and designed to benefit you and your family.

Whether you served decades ago or are currently living with someone who serves, your status matters. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Questions or queries

If you have any questions or queries, please send them to  [email protected] and mark then for the attention of Mark. Mark is a military veteran and is Ossett Surgery’s Veteran Health Champion.