Andrew Stephenson MP has endorsed the new Military Mental Health Helpline announced by Defence Secretary, Gavin Williamson, on the 25 of February.
Active service personnel and their families will now have 24 hour access to professional help by calling the 0800 323 4444.
This arrives after the Defence Secretary has promised to increase Ministry of Defence (MOD) funding for Mental Health Care to £220 million for the next decade.
According to a report by the Ministry of Defence, between 2016 and 2017, 6137 personnel presented with issues at the MOD Specialist Mental Health Services.
Combat Stress, the leading veteran’s mental health charity, has delivered a similar service since 2011 and is the only helpline tailored towards the Armed Forces community. Combat Stress will now work in partnership with the MOD and a team of specially trained professionals to enhance their existing service.
Mr Stephenson said, “Many active service personnel wait until after leaving the military to seek treatment for mental health conditions. This can lead to conditions becoming complex and more difficult to treat.”
“We owe it to those who have given their lives for this country to ensure they have all the support that they need. I am proud that we are doing more to take care of them.”
Defence Secretary, Mr Williamson said, “Mental illnesses caused by life on the battlefield can have a devastating impact on our brave heroes and their families. It is our moral and professional duty to ensure that we do all we can for our world class troops.”
“That’s why we have commissioned the new 24/7 Military Mental Health Helpline and will spend an extra £2-million a year on mental health services for the next decade on top of the £20-million we already spend each year.”