Dorset HealthCare recognised as a Veteran Aware NHS Trust

Ahead of Armed Forces Day (Saturday, 26 June) Dorset HealthCare is proud to announce that it’s been formally named a Veteran Aware Trust.

The accreditation, from the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VC HA), acknowledges our commitment to improving NHS care for veterans, reservists, active members of the armed forces and their families.

Dorset HealthCare is now a member of the VC HA and is one of a growing number of NHS Trusts gaining this accolade.

Dr Faisil Sethi, Medical Director at the Trust, said:

“We are honoured to have received accreditation for being a Veteran Aware Trust.

“Trauma experienced through service can have a devastating effect on the lives of service men and women, and their families. I am very proud of the support we can offer to anyone in the armed forces community who may experience health problems.”

Matthew Metcalfe, Director of Finance and Strategic Development at the Trust, said:

 “Achieving Veteran Aware status demonstrates the passion of our staff across the service and shows members of the local armed forces community that we are here for them when they need us.”

As well as providing support to active personnel, veterans, reservists, family members and those bereaved, the Trust’s Armed Forces Community Health and Wellbeing Team also helps people with accessing health and social care support and housing, welfare and employment issues.

Andy Gritt, Clinical and Operations Manager for the Armed Forces Community Health and Wellbeing Team, said:

“We are very proud to have received this accreditation. It’s vitally important that ex-armed forces personnel are being well supported, not just on Armed Forces Day but all year round.  Our team is here for you every step of the way.”

To find out more or get support from the Armed Forces Community Health and Wellbeing Team visit the webpage or email dhc.dorset.veterans@nhs.net