Where can I get support

For veterans, currently serving personnel and their families.

If you're not sure which service is right for you, or you just want to talk to someone, contact one of these services online, over the phone or in person.

Emotional and peer support

Including NHS specialist mental health services and veteran breakfast clubs.

Skills, training and job opportunities

Help with career transition, jobs for ex-military personnel and jobs for families of those currently serving.

Are you a carer?

Support for those caring for someone who served in the armed forces, and for families of serving personnel with caring responsibilities

Discounts for veterans and the Armed Forces

Including blue badges and bus passes.

Housing and schools

Help applying for Hertfordshire schools or housing, plus paying for housing costs.

Advice and signposting

If you're not sure which service is right for you, or you just want to talk to someone, contact one of these services online, over the phone or in person.

Op COMMUNITY

OpCOMMUNITY is a dedicated telephone and email helpline for members of the armed forces community needing advice and guidance on services including NHS and social care. It is designed for former and serving personnel of the Armed Forces, their family members, carers and reservists living in Hertfordshire and west Essex.

Email: hcns.HWE-AFCfamiliesveterans@nhs.net

Phone: 07940 177 581

Forces Connect

The Forces Connect app and website are resources designed to support the Armed Forces Community, including serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Developed through a partnership of local authorities and armed forces organizations, Forces Connect provides access to a wide range of services and support, from health and housing to employment and education, easily filtered by subject and location.

Please note that this app is provided by a third party. Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) did not develop this app and has no control over its content or functionality.

Support for veterans on GOV.UK

GOV.UK has dedicated support guidance for veterans. Support for veterans and their families can help veterans find the information they need categorised by life stages - housing, employment, mental and physical health support, illness or injury, bereavement, care needs and more.

A searchable directory lists both government and charity support available to veterans and their families, allowing veterans to find help locally and nationally. You can search by topic and location for easy access to appropriate support. There is also a helpline which can provide information and referral support by telephone: 0808 802 1212.

Veterans UK

Veterans Services, part of Veterans UK, provide one to one support to service personnel, leavers, veterans and their families. Their services include:

Veterans Welfare Service - holistic support to serving personnel, veterans and their dependants with an enduring welfare need, such as assistance with injury and bereavement compensation claims, transition support for personnel being medically discharged and confidential help and support for those who have life limiting illness.
Defence Transition Services - holistic support to service leavers and their families who are most likely to face challenges as they leave the armed forces, assisting them with adjusting to civilian life by simplifying, coordinating and streamlining access to support across a range of topics, including housing, finances, employment and access to healthcare.
Integrated Personal Commissioning for Veterans - bespoke support to service leavers suffering from complex physical, neurological and mental health issues resulting from a service-attributable injury.

To find out more, complete a referral form or contact the Veterans UK helpline, visit help for veterans (GOV.UK).

Support in a crisis scheme

HertsHelp provides a free helpline to give you the support and advice you need in difficult times. They'll make sure you get the help you need by directing you to specialist support services who can give you confidential and anonymous advice.

Call 0300 123 4044 for advice Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm. You can also ask to be contacted.

Veteran Friendly accredited GP practices

Find a local practice who is accredited through the Royal College of GPs Veteran Friendly GP Practice Scheme.

Is your GP interested in joining the scheme? Share information with them about the benefits and how to join the scheme.