Veterans have dedicated their lives to serving the United Kingdom. Yet, when the uniform comes off, many face silent battles โ from mental health challenges to finding stable housing or employment. Veteran support in the UK is vital, and fortunately, there are a range of services available for those who need help.
In this guide, we break down the most important types of support available to veterans, with trusted organisations and links you can access today.
๐ฎ Table of Contents
๐ง Mental Health Support for Veterans
Mental health challenges are common among veterans, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Recognising the need for specialised care, the UK offers several dedicated services for veteran support.
- Combat Stress: The UKโs leading charity for veterans’ mental health, offering free clinical treatment and support.
๐ Visit Combat Stress - Op COURAGE: The NHS Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Service, designed specifically for veterans needing mental health care.
๐ Learn More About Op COURAGE - Help for Heroes Hidden Wounds: Mental health and wellbeing support for veterans and their families.
๐ Visit Hidden Wounds
If you’re struggling, reaching out is not weakness โ it’s strength.
๐ Housing Assistance for Veterans
Finding stable accommodation is another major challenge after military service. Thankfully, there are veteran-specific housing programmes and charities ready to assist.
- Veterans’ Gateway: A first point of contact for housing advice and referral to partner organisations.
๐ Visit Veterans’ Gateway - Haig Housing: The UK’s largest provider of rental housing for ex-Service people and their families.
๐ Explore Haig Housing - Stoll: Provides housing and support to vulnerable and disabled veterans.
๐ Learn About Stoll
Whether itโs emergency accommodation or long-term support, help is available.
๐ผ Employment Support for Veterans
Returning to civilian work life can be difficult, but several organisations are committed to helping veterans transition into new careers.
- Career Transition Partnership (CTP): The Ministry of Defenceโs official provider for resettlement services.
๐ Explore CTP Services - RFEA โ The Forces Employment Charity: Offers career advice, job finding support, and mentoring.
๐ Visit RFEA - Walking With The Wounded Employment Programme: Supports veterans in sustainable employment.
๐ Find Out More
Employers across the UK are increasingly recognising the value veterans bring to their teams.
๐ธ Financial and Welfare Advice
Financial struggles can accompany the transition to civilian life. Thankfully, veterans can access professional financial advice and welfare support.
- SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association): Provides financial advice and emergency grants.
๐ Visit SSAFA - Royal British Legion Benefits and Money Advice: Offers financial aid, budgeting advice, and emergency funds.
๐ Learn More
Even small grants or advice can make a huge difference during tough times.
๐ฅ Community and Social Support
Veteran support in the UK is also about community โ feeling seen, heard, and connected.
- The Poppy Factory: Helps wounded, injured, and sick veterans find meaningful work and connect socially.
๐ Visit The Poppy Factory - British Legion Branches: Community hubs all across the UK for social events, remembrance activities, and veteran-to-veteran support.
๐ Find a Local Branch
Loneliness can be just as dangerous as any physical injury โ stay connected.
๐ Additional Resources
โจ Final Thoughts: You Are Not Alone
Veteran support in the UK has never been more accessible. Whether you need mental health care, stable housing, employment advice, or simply someone to talk to โ help is always just a click or a phone call away.
At Veterans Hurt Too, we are committed to raising awareness, providing support through our charitable donations, and reminding every veteran: you are not forgotten.
If you want to support our mission, you can explore our veteran-support-focused apparel or learn more about our story on the About Us page.
Together, we can build a better future for all who served.
Veteran Support UK