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UK Veteran Crisis Signposting
We received a newsletter from the Veterans Information Service, with some valuable signporting information for veterans in crisis, salient details are below:

Veterans UK Helpline

The Veterans UK helpline provides free advice and support to veterans, serving personnel and their families on pensions, compensation claims, welfare issues, housing and bereavement, and can refer callers to the Veterans Welfare Service or service charities when needed.

  • Freephone 0808 1914 2 18 
  • Monday - Friday 0800-1700

When the lines are closed callers will be given the option to be routed to Combat Stress or the Samaritans 24hr helpline.

The Samaritans

The Samaritans offer free, confidential emotional support 24 hours a day to anyone who is struggling to cope or feeling distressed

Medical Assistance

NHS Choices. For emergencies cal 999. Call 111 when you need medical help fast but it's not an emergency. 

Veterans' Gateway

Veterans' Gateway is for any ex-service personnel and their families looking for advice or support - whatever they're dealing with.

They provide the first point of contact to a network of military and non-military partner organisations to help you find exactly what you need, when you need it - whether you're in the UK or overseas.

For 24-hour support go to www.veteransgateway.org.uk or call 0808 802 1212

The Royal British Legion

The Royal British Legion provides lifelong information, advice and support for the Armed Forces community and their families. Contact their Helpline on 0808 802 8080. Opening hours are from 08:00 to 20.00 (7 days a week). Or visit their website via: www.britishleqion.org.uk 

SSAFA- the Armed Forces Charity

Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Airmen’s Families Association (SSAFA) operate a confidential Forces Line. All Members of the Armed Forces community may call this number to discuss any issues of concern in confidence. Forcesline - 0800 731 4880 or 01980 630 854
Opening hours are 10:30 to 19:30 Monday to Friday (including Bank Holidays) or visit their website via:
www.ssafa.org.uk 

Big White Wall

Big White Wall is an online early intervention service for people in psychological distress. It is provided in partnership with the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust.

It combines social networking principles with a choice of clinically informed interventions to improve mental wellbeing. It can be accessed 24/7 and has staff called Wall Guides who ensure the full engagement, safety and anonymity of all members. This service is free to veterans. +44 (0)20 70601677 or visit their website via: www.bigwhitewall.com 

Combat Stress

Their 24-hour Mental Health Helpline helps on many issues including benefits, housing and welfare: 0800 138 1619 or visit their website via: www.combatstress.org.uk