The Armed Forces Covenant – which recently passed into law – is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve, or who have served, in the Armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. The aim is to develop, share and drive the implementation of best practice that will improve armed forces veterans’ care, while at the same time raising standards for everyone across the NHS.
Paul Murphy, chair of the trust, said: “This recognition is hugely important to us. We have several military bases on our patch, including Catterick Garrison, RAF Leeming, Imphal Barracks, Strensall Barracks and many Reserves and cadet organisations.
“We also employ staff who are veterans and those who have children who are serving personnel.
“We are committed to being an armed forces-friendly organisation, and we are currently working with people who have a lived experience of the armed forces, and their family members, to develop of our services and ensure they receive the right support and opportunities.”
VCHA Regional Lead Lynsey Nicholson said: “Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust joins 38 other Trusts across the North of England that have gained Veteran Aware accreditation. I’d like to thank the team for their hard work and dedication to providing the best possible experience of care to members of the armed forces community. We were very impressed with the scope of the work and the actions planned for the future.”
The Veteran Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA) is committed to improving Armed Forces and Veteran care whilst raising standards for all. 113 NHS providers in England are now Veteran Aware accredited. Find out more about our work by clicking here.
