Care for UK military veterans is 'flawed', say medical experts

[citizenB]

 

Professor Briggs, who said he was "moved" by the sacrifice made by veterans who attended his clinics, said "we can do better and we should do better".

 

"They weren't aware of the Armed Forces Covenant and finding access to specialist care was sometimes proving difficult and as a result some veterans were falling through the net and we had to improve things."

 

The military charity Help For Heroes has estimated that 75,000 service personnel could suffer mentally and physically as a result of operations in Afghanistan.

 

With some NHS staff unaware of the covenant - and veterans not always keen to tell their doctors about their past - the charity has said a government database would help to make sure they receive the care they are entitled to.

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-29807947

[Conniff]

Our armed forces are held in very high esteem and with such affection (deservedly so) by the public at present, in fact I think the public are more behind them today than they have ever been.

 

 

The government needs to recognise that fact and get their fingers out of their bottoms and recognise them also.

We might see them laughing and joking and doing marathons etc, but what about night time when they are alone in their beds?

 

 

At such a young age with limbs missing, they know, but don't let on, that they can never enjoy the quality of life they had before, they put on their brave faces for the camera, but what when that camera isn't there.

Edited October 29, 2014 by Conniff

[rebel11]

Returning servicemen have had their benefits withdrawn, the government do value them when they are needed to serve their country, but they do not look after their needs after they have served their country.

[stu007]

Sadly this is the Government through and through, these servicemen/women know what they have signed up to do and put their lives on the line for their country without questioning it.

 

How does the Government show its appreciation doesnt fire the top brass that messed up the MODs accounts and left the MOD in financial distress but takes it out on the lower rank and file and those returning from active service to be told your SACKED.

 

As for the Armed Forces Covenant should we not be saying the Governments Paper exercise to try and make it look like they are helping but in reality it is just that a paper exercise.

 

If the Government was actually helping our service personnel then why the need for so many charities which the Government has passed the buck to to do what they should be doing.

 

The Government should be doing a lot more not only for those serving but those that have left or been medically discharged (veterans) sadly nothing has really changed for those that have left are basically left to fend for themselves and when they do need help or assistance there is nothing but barriers and hoops to go through to get that help or assistance.

 

Where I live 5yrs ago there was a major audit done on homelessness and the shocking fact that came out was that 85% of those homeless at the time had a military background.