Health boost for the Armed Forces community: new NHS training programme launches
The Department of Health and Social Care has announced a major national training programme designed to help NHS staff better understand and meet the needs of veterans, serving personnel, reservists, and their families.
Whats new
- £1.8 million investment over three years to deliver training for NHS staff across England.
- Training delivered by regional trainers to doctors, nurses, GPs, therapists, managers, and more.
- Every NHS trust in England has now achieved Veteran Aware accreditation, reinforcing the NHS’s commitment to forces-friendly care.
Why it matters
Many veterans and service families struggle to self-identify when accessing healthcare. This programme aims to embed recognition and tailored support within clinical practice, ensuring no one is overlooked. It will address both physical injuries and mental health conditions such as PTSD and depression.
“This training will make a real difference for veterans and their families. It’s about giving NHS staff the confidence and knowledge to provide the right care at the right time.”
— David Richmond CBE, Veterans’ Commissioner for England
Next steps
- Rollout of training sessions: Regional trainers will begin delivering sessions to NHS staff across England starting early 2026.
- Integration into onboarding: Trusts will embed veteran-aware training into induction programmes for new starters.
- Continuous professional development: Training will be available as part of CPD for existing staff.
- Monitoring and evaluation: NHS Employers will work with trusts to track engagement and measure impact on patient care.
- Strengthening partnerships: Organisations will collaborate with Armed Forces networks.
- Communication and awareness: Trusts will share updates internally and externally to highlight their commitment.
To find out more, read the full announcement on the government website.
