Veterans Receive Extra NHS Support in Cornwall – One Man’s Story Shows the Impact

Former Sergeant finds new hope after collapse in supermarket

Armed forces veterans in Cornwall are being encouraged to speak up about their service when accessing health and care services, as new support becomes available through the NHS.

The call comes after the Trust received its silver Veteran Aware status in 2024, awarded by the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance. This national programme helps NHS providers identify patients and staff with an armed forces background, offering additional support where needed.

More than just medical care

One way veterans can be supported is through armed forces champions – staff members trained to provide extra help and connect veterans with further assistance.

Neill Wilson, Progress Coordinator and one of the Trust’s armed forces champions, said:

“If a veteran accesses our services, we can often offer extra help. We can signpost to armed forces charities in the community and other voluntary agencies to support their ongoing care once they have been discharged from hospital. These include Age UK, Home from Hospital, Volunteer Cornwall, and Humans Cornwall.

“For veterans with orthopaedic issues as a direct result of their service, we can try to support them to be fast-tracked. Success is dependent on many factors, such as resources, availability, and funding.

“If we know a patient is a veteran, we can help them in more ways than to provide just medical care.”

A life turned around

One veteran who recently benefited is Anthony, a former Sergeant in the Royal Engineers who served in Northern Ireland.

After the death of his wife in January 2024, Anthony became isolated and stopped looking after himself. His home became unsafe, and both Cornwall Housing and adult social care tried to intervene, but he refused help. Eventually, a court order was issued to repossess his property.

Everything changed when Anthony collapsed in a supermarket and was admitted to one of the Trust’s hospitals. Learning the hospital was Veteran Aware gave him the confidence to open up.

Neill was brought in and worked with Anthony’s housing officer to halt the court action. He also coordinated help from several charities, securing safe housing, furniture, support with benefits, and help to prevent isolation.

The organisations involved included Age UK, Humans Cornwall, the Royal British Legion, Active Plus, Op Kernow, and the Veterans Charity.

Neill added:

“Thanks to Anthony’s bravery, many civilian and military agencies and charities are now involved with supporting him to ensure that he does not fall through the cracks.

“He has a fresh start. With the best of luck, he will not return to the NHS system.”

Support is growing

The Trust now has 22 armed forces champions in place. Two community hospitals have already received Veteran Aware status, with three more expected to follow soon.

Veterans in Cornwall are being urged to inform NHS staff of their armed forces background to ensure they receive the full support available.