Healthcare Entitlements

Veterans receive priority access to NHS treatment for conditions related to their military service, including physical injuries and mental health conditions. Always tell clinicians you are a veteran and that the condition is service-related.

Op COURAGE is free NHS mental health support for veterans, reservists and families in many areas. It can provide assessment, therapy, trauma treatment and crisis pathways. Self-referral is often possible.

Combat Stress specialises in veterans' mental health including PTSD, with helpline support and treatment programmes free to eligible veterans.

NHS network of clinicians experienced with military-related physical and psychological trauma, accessed via GP or specialist referral.

Veterans with service-related amputations or serious injuries can access specialist rehabilitation pathways. Charities may fund equipment beyond standard NHS provision.

Service-related noise-induced hearing loss is common. You may be entitled to priority treatment and, where appropriate, compensation claims (AFCS or War Pension) alongside NHS audiology.

Veterans UK Welfare Service can visit or call to help with claims, welfare needs and navigating support after injury or bereavement.

Registering as a veteran helps unlock Covenant commitments in primary care and makes it easier to access specialist pathways.

Veterans can use mainstream NHS addiction services and specialist veteran-aware support via Gateway, Help for Heroes and other charities when drink or drugs are part of the picture.