Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson has backed Britain hosting the first ever European veterans’ mental health conference, and voiced his support for former and serving members of the Armed Forces.
The landmark conference took place in London in June and was hosted by the Minister for Defence People and Veterans, the Rt Hon Tobias Ellwood MP. Ministers and military officials from six NATO member nations gathered to discuss how governments can provide better mental health care to their veterans.
The conference follows the Ministry of Defence’s announcement in March of a new Military Mental Health Helpline and a boost to funding that means £220 million will be spent over the next decade on veterans’ mental health.
Mr Stephenson said, “Our Armed Forces risk their lives to keep us safe and therefore deserve the best physical and mental health care we can provide. I am delighted the UK is showing leadership on this vital issue.”
Minister for Defence People and Veterans Tobias Ellwood said, “In order to recruit the next generation of soldiers, sailors and airmen and women, we need to show that we look after our service personnel and veterans.”
“Britain is not unique in facing this challenge. That’s why it’s vital that we discuss these issues and share best practice with our close European military partners.”
As part of the Pendle Armed Forces Community Covenant, veterans in the area in need of mental health treatment are able to self-refer to MindsMatter’s Talking Therapies program. Information on how to do so can be found at www.pendle.gov.uk/armedforces. The Military Mental Health Helpline is on 0800 323 4444.