A veteran is anyone who has served in the Armed Forces for at least one day, whether a regular or reservist. Practices within our PCN are veteran friendly, which means we are better able to identify and support veterans and refer them, where appropriate, to dedicated NHS services.
It is important to register with a GP practice as soon as possible and let them know that you have served in the UK Armed Forces, regardless of when you left. This will ensure that you receive continuous care and support. For more more information on how to register with a GP, please visit – RBL – Registering with a civilian GP (britishlegion.org.uk)
To prove that you served in the Armed Forces you can apply for the HM Armed Forces Veteran Card which allows quicker access to any available support. To apply for your card please visit: HM Armed Forces Veteran Card – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Indicating that you are a veteran in your NHS records ensures that you have access to services which are dedicated to those who served in the Armed Forces. Please inform us of your veteran status by clicking on the ‘Contact Us’ button, alternatively, please contact your GP Practice and speak to reception.
There is a wide range of personalised care and support and a variety of charities and services available for veterans and their families. See below for more information:
This Health and Wellbeing project is funded by the armed forces covenant and Lancashire County Council in the Blackpool, Wyre & Fylde community. The prime concentration is to engage with veterans and help them to improve health and wellbeing. See the newsletter for more information on events and activities in your area.
Ask For Help
This page provides a variety of military and civilian services that can offer support and signpost you to the most appropriate source of help.
Help for Heroes
Help for Heroes is the leading Armed Forces and veterans’ charity in the UK. This charity can help all veterans and their families live well after service through offering a tailored and holistic
This page provides all healthcare information aimed for all veterans, service leavers, non-mobilised reservists, and their family members and carers. They can access a range of specialist healthcare and support created to provide treatment and care.
Royal British Legion
The Royal British Legion offers help to members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families.
The support they offer is tailored to all serving and ex-serving personnel all year round. The support starts after one day of service and continues through life, long after service is over.
SSAFA
The Armed Forces charity is a UK’s oldest national tri-service military charity that provides lifelong support to serving personnel, veterans and their families. They offer welfare, health and support services that are tailored to individual needs.
Urgent help
Veterans needing urgent help in a crisis can select from variety of organisations who can offer immediate help and assistance.
Veterans Aid
Veterans Aid supports ex-servicemen and women in need of help. They provide help with financial issues and support independent and sustainable living.
Veterans’ Gateway
Veterans’ Gateway offers welfare support for all tri-service veterans, and their families. Its content includes housing, finances, mental health and other support. Lancashire specific resources can be found here – Lancashire Veterans’ Gateway