Female veterans' support service gains national attention
A mental health initiative founded a year ago is being considered for wider adoption.
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A mental health support initiative for women who have served in the armed forces, launched 12 months ago, is gaining recognition and could be expanded across the country. The service, provided by the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, has so far supported 48 female veterans.
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The support group, run by the trust which delivers mental health services, offers assistance with a range of concerns specific to female veterans. These include navigating military pension claims and managing the effects of the menopause. Guest speakers also contribute to the programme, as reported by the BBC.
Clinical nurse specialist Vicki Bailey, who has been involved in the service, highlighted the benefits of shared experiences among the women. She noted that national interest has been expressed by other NHS trusts keen to implement a similar model, indicating a recognised need for such specialised care.
Government and Military Engagement
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The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has developed a new toolkit aimed at providing tailored guidance and support for female veterans. The MOD stated that since 2024, improvements have been made to mental health provisions for both serving personnel and veterans, acknowledging the increasing number of women in the armed forces.
Vicki Bailey has collaborated with the MOD on enhancing support for women currently serving and those transitioning out of military service. She commented that the challenges faced by women veterans are being acknowledged by government and healthcare bodies, though further work is required, particularly within the military structure and during the transition period.
“If you don't know what's out there to support you it's quite scary and daunting.”
Vicki Bailey, Clinical Nurse Specialist
Personal Testimonies and Future Needs
Chelley Tulloch, a former RAF medic who has engaged with the group, shared her positive experience, stating it was beneficial for her mental health. She described experiencing PTSD symptoms following multiple deployments, which significantly impacted her daily life and self-perception.
Tulloch also noted that as more women join the military, the demand for dedicated mental health support is likely to increase. She indicated that she speaks with women across the UK, and various organisations are now collaborating to support female veterans.
The MOD confirmed it is increasing investment in NHS services for veterans. Serving personnel have access to a 24-hour helpline and mental health professionals, according to the BBC.
Questions this report answers
+What kind of support does the service offer to female veterans?
The service provides assistance with military pension claims, managing menopause effects, and shared experiences through group sessions. Guest speakers also contribute to the programme, addressing specific needs of female veterans. This tailored approach recognises the unique challenges women face after leaving the armed forces.
+How many women has the service helped so far?
The Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust’s service has assisted 48 female veterans in its first year. This figure reflects the growing demand for specialised mental health support among women who have served in the military. It highlights the initiative’s early impact and potential for expansion.
+What has the Ministry of Defence done to improve support?
The Ministry of Defence introduced a new toolkit offering tailored guidance for female veterans. Since 2024, improvements have been made to mental health provisions for both serving personnel and veterans. This reflects a broader recognition of the need for targeted support as more women join the armed forces.
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