Do you know we now have a Derbyshire Armed Forces Champion drop-in service every Thursday morning from 9.30am to 1pm?

The Armed Forces Champion is part of the government’s policy, Department for Work and Pensions, and in place to support our UK Armed Forces Community. Whether you are ex Forces or still Serving, Regulars, Reservists and families then this support is for you to access.

Elizabeth Gaunt MBE covers everything from mental health, housing, employment, retraining, benefits and much more.

To get in touch ask your GP practice to be referred to me or contact me directly on 07827 233143 or email Elizabeth.gaunt@dwp.gov.uk. These services are only for our UK Armed Forces Community.

Please let your surgery know if you have served or are currently serving in the UK Armed Forces, they can then add this to your medical records. This is a confidential service.

We are here to listen, help and support.

Services

• NHS OpCourage - Specialised help for Mental Health

This is The Veterans Mental Health and Well Being Service. All trained professionals are from or have experience of working with the Armed Forces Community. Please see the information here.

• NHS OpNova - Op NOVA | Forces Employment Charity

The Forces Employment Charity is proud to provide life-changing support for veterans in the justice system.

The shift into non-military life can bring challenges that can lead to veterans feeling detached and in between military and civilian worlds. The reality for many is that this can potentially lead to housing problems, debt, health issues, PTSD, or alcohol, drug or gambling misuse. Which can, in turn, lead to some veterans being at risk of offending.

• OpRestore - (this is a referral service from your GP)

This service can support you if you have a physical health problem or any type of severity. You can be referred even if you were not medically discharged. This service is for anyone who had a physical health problem as a result of your time in service.

Other Available Services

• Rock to Recovery - Rock2Recovery | Armed Forces Charity

This service provides 6 hours of coaching free of charge - there is a self-referral form online at the above link or call 01392 642 960

• Combat Stress - Mental health services for veterans | Combat Stress

This service provides a 24hr helpline - 0800 138 1619, text 07537 173 683, email helpline@combatstress.org.uk