We are BCHC
Veteran Aware
BCHC has been awarded the Veteran Covenant Healthcare Alliance’s Veteran Aware Accreditation, meaning that we are now a Veteran Aware Trust.
Supporting the Armed Forces Community
How BCHC and the wider NHS are making life a little easier for staff and patients from the Armed Forces Community.
A veteran is anyone who has served at least one day in the Armed Forces and veterans make up around 10% of the population: the Armed Forces Community is far larger; it includes serving Regular Forces and Reservists, veterans and their families.
The Armed Forces Community (including currently serving personnel, veterans, and reservists, spouses, and children) face two particular challenges relevant to the NHS and to BCHC:
- Accessing healthcare – the demands of the Armed Forces can create challenges in accessing NHS services.
- Accessing employment opportunities at the Trust – the Armed Forces Community have highly transferable and valuable skills and there is a desire to ensure these skills are attracted into the NHS.
BCHC is committed to supporting the Armed Forces Community and that's why we have signed the Armed Forces Covenant.
We are also proud to share that as of 10 April 2024 we have been awarded the Veteran Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA)'s Veteran Aware Accreditation.
This page provides some information on our commitment, as well as education information to support both colleagues and patients from the Armed Forces Community.
Veteran Aware Accreditation
Veteran Aware Accreditation is awarded by the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA).
The Manifesto is an agreed framework of eight standards that imbue Armed Forces Covenant principles and how they relate to the NHS.
It is against these standards that Veteran Aware accreditation is measured. The aim is to identify and highlight the best standards of care for the armed forces community and to drive the implementation of proven practice in the treatment to these groups across the UK.
To achieve Veteran Aware accreditation, organisations must complete an evidence-based assessment of how they are meeting, or plan to meet, the manifesto standards as part of the accreditation process.
The standards are:
In March 2024 we submitted our evidence-based assessment on how we are meeting, or plan to meet, these standards as part of the accreditation process. Our journey towards this accreditation has been a collaborative effort, with teams from across BCHC coming together to ensure that we meet the highest standards of care and support for our Armed Forces Community members. We were awarded Veteran Aware Status in April 2024 and will be re-accredited in early 2025.
If you'd like to use the Veteran Aware logo on any internal materials, please get in touch with the Programme Lead or approach the communications team.
Armed Forces Covenant
The Covenant is a promise from the nation to those who serve, or have served and their families to be treated fairly. It gained royal assent in December 2021 and is now passed into law with a legal obligation to pay ‘due regard’ effective from 22 November 2022.
Healthcare providers are expected to:
- Ensure this community does not experience disadvantage as a result of their service compared to other citizens.
- Special consideration is appropriate in some cases for those who have given the most such as the injured or bereaved.
- Family members should retain their places on NHS waiting lists if moved around the UK due to the service person being posted.
- Veterans should receive priority treatment for a service-related health condition/injury, subject to clinical need.
- Cared for in a way which reflects the nation’s moral obligation and by healthcare professionals with an understanding of the Armed Forces culture.
BCHC signed the Armed Forces Covenant in November 2023.
The Covenant underscores our commitment to treating those who serve and their families fairly. It affirms our dedication to ensuring that the Armed Forces community does not experience disadvantages due to their service and we pledge to uphold this moral obligation.
Veteran support services
There are a range of services available to the armed forces community because of the unique difficulties armed forces personnel may face. For example, the transition from military to civilian life can be a complex and emotionally challenging process. Veterans may experience a range of difficulties, including with mental and physical health, employment, finding accommodation, debt and finances. Additionally, the demands of military life can lead to strained relationships and social isolation.
Being in the armed forces can not only impact the individual but also their loved ones. Changes brought on by a loved one’s absence can be difficult for partners, children and families to adjust to. Partners and families may also face struggles when a military person who was absent returns and navigates the adjustment to civilian life. Furthermore, Armed Forces families sometimes have to adjust to frequent relocation due to their partner or parent being required to train at various bases across the UK.
There are many NHS services and veteran charities that provide support for both the individual and their family. Veteran services aim to aid veterans and their loved ones in navigating the mental and physical health challenges and social needs they encounter post military service. By extending support to a veteran’s close support network, loved ones can better understand veterans' needs and be provided with the tools to offer effective support.
| Op Courage |
Op COURAGE is the NHS Veterans’ Mental Health and Wellbeing service. They provide psychological therapy, peer support and support with other health and social needs. |
0300 323 0137 | mevs.mhm@nhs.net | OpCOURAGE_Leaflet 2021.pdf [pdf] 272KB |
| Op Restore | Veterans Physical Health and Wellbeing Service. • Provides specialist care and support to veterans who have physical health problems as a result of their time in the Armed Forces. Uses a network of clinicians across England who have a military background and /or an understanding of the military |
imperial.oprestore@nhs.net | Op RESTORE leaflet Aug 23.pdf [pdf] 5MB | |
| Op Fortitude | Service for veterans in housing crisis or at risk. • Provides a centralised referral pathway for veterans experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their current home. |
0800 952 0774 | Referral Form | OpFORTITUDE One Pager.pdf [pdf] 167KB |
| Op Nova | Service for veterans in contact with the justice system. • Support with debt, health issues, mental health, employment, drug and alcohol misuse. |
0800 9177299 | opnova@forcesemployment.org.uk | |
| The Veterans Welfare Service (VWS) provides a professional help and advice service to veterans or anyone supporting a veteran, their families and dependants. | 01562 825527 | Veterans-UK-VWS-Wales-Mid@mod.gov.uk | A_guide_to_the_Veterans_Welfare_Service.pdf [pdf] 103KB | |
| Royal British Legion |
The Royal British Legion helps members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families. They support serving and ex-serving personnel all year round, every day of the week. Their support starts after one day of service and continues through life, long after service is over. |
0808 802 8080 | Online Chat | |
| SSAFA can help provide practical, financial and emotional support for service personnel, veterans and their families. |
020 4566 9116 |
ewm.region@ssafa.org.uk | ||
| Little Troopers |
Little Troopers is a registered charity supporting all military children who have parent(s) serving in our British Armed Forces, regular or reserve. |
info@littletroopers.net | ||
| Blind Vets UK | Blind Veterans UK can help individuals to live a fulfilling, independent life after sight loss. | 0800 389 7979 | ||
| Charity that supports limbless veterans for the duration of their lives, offering financial and emotional support to them and their families. | 020 8590 1124 | info@blesma.org | ||
| Fighting With Pride supports the health and wellbeing of LGBT+Veterans, service personnel and their families – in particular those most impacted by the ban on LGBT+ personnel serving in the Armed Forces prior to January 2000. | Contact Form | |||
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The Veterans Contact Point (Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire) |
They provide a confidential, free service for veterans and their families living and working in Coventry and Warwickshire. | 02476 343793 | contactus@veteranscontactpoint.co.uk |
Veteran and Armed Forces community groups
| The Birmingham Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club is the heart of veteran camaraderie, often referred to as Birmingham AFVBC. As a proud member of the worldwide network of Veterans Breakfast Clubs, they are dedicated to fostering connections, offering support, and providing a welcoming and safe space for veterans in the Birmingham Area. Join them at Birmingham AFVBC where the spirit of "By Veterans for Veterans" thrives. All services are welcome: Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army Royal Air Force etc (serving or veterans). | |
| A list of links for all Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Clubs in the Midlands. | |
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The Royal Army Medical Corps Association (Birmingham Branch) |
This Charity is for serving, ex-serving and families of the members of the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC). The objects of The RAMC Charity are: To promote the of the Army and in particular the RAMC in such charitable ways, including; maintaining contact with present and past members, fostering esprit de corps, to provide relief for those in need and to promote military medical research. |
| The Federation of Birmingham Ex-Service Associations, was established in 1951 by Les Male to provide a unified platform for ex-servicemen and women seeking camaraderie and social connections post-WWII. Stemming from the need to replace the sense of companionship experienced during service, the Federation brings together various Regimental Associations under one banner, while still allowing each association to operate independently. Through parades, social events, and the annual Remembrance Day Parade, the Federation fosters a sense of esprit de corps and honors fallen comrades. Additionally, the Federation extends its support to non-military groups such as War Widows and the Birmingham Air Raids Remembrance Association. As a message to all ex-service personnel, the Federation encourages continued association and support for their respective associations, emphasizing a warm welcome for those whose regiments or corps have disbanded. This enduring commitment underscores the collective service and sacrifices made, with a pledge to always stand by serving and injured personnel. | |
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• Enjoy social events and get involved. • Take part in ceremonial events, e.g. by application to the Association for tickets to the Field of Remembrance or the Cenotaph ceremony in London. • Grants to offset personal contributions of those participating in Battlefield Tours. • Be part of your local branch and receive more benefits • Be part of the wider QARANC Community |
Staff Stories
Becky Martin, Deputy Chief Nurse, Veteran Aware Clinical Lead
As an ex Wound Care Nurse, I have treated a number of veterans who were impacted by war with horrific injuries and despite this were humble and talked about their service very openly and always with great humour.
As Deputy Chief Nurse, I am proud to represent patients and staff and ensure veterans and their families are recognised for their contribution to enable fair access to healthcare as a patient and recognise the skill set a veteran can bring to the workforce. The ability to communicate effectively, coordinate and articulate their own care needs is a skill set that would be welcomed in BCHC. The Trust's mission of improving healthcare for veterans is one that is values based and I support and endorse.
Michelle Alli, Chief Governance Officer, Veteran Aware Executive Lead
When we were asked to volunteer for the position of Executive Lead for Veteran Aware Accreditation programme, I was the first to put myself forward. My mom was a WREN, based in Portsmouth, and spoke fondly throughout her life of the significant contribution not only of the men and women who sacrifice so much to proudly represent our armed forces, but also of their families who are equally as committed. I saw this as a way I could also proudly represent the community that meant so much to her.
In line with our “Best Care; Healthy Communities” vision, BCHC are committed to promoting health equity and playing our part in tackling inequalities that affect health outcomes and life changes for the people we serve.
We recognise that the armed forces community can experience delays in accessing treatment and care; we also recognise the impact this has on both their physical and mental health and well-being. We also feel that as a large Community NHS Trust, we can positively impact on employment opportunities which is why we have already committed to achieve silver ERS accreditation this financial year. We recognise there is more we can do and we are committed to doing this work hand in hand with the wider armed forces community and allies.
We welcome achievement of our Veteran Aware accreditation as an important first step to signal our intention to be a more impactful organisation for our armed forces.
Sue Collis, Bank Secretary, Armed Forces Champion
I joined the TA, now known as Reservists, in 1979 following an advert in the Birmingham Mail.
I was interviewed by an Admin Officer who recognised that I worked for the NHS in an admin/clerical position at the Birmingham General Hospital. I was therefore enlisted as a military clerk. I undertook my basic army training and the required military clerk training which helped me progress through the ranks and by the time I left the TA, I was a senior military clerk with the rank of Staff Sergeant AGV(V).
Whilst I progressed my military carer I also at the opportunity to progress my career in the NHS working in supervisory and Admin manger positions. It was however the TA that gave me the opportunity to take minutes not the NHS. I therefore undertook my secretarial qualifications at night school as it was acknowledged by my Line Manager that this would be beneficial.
As I look back on my TA and NHS careers both had influence and benefit from what I had learnt and the skills that I used in both my roles. Accuracy, brevity and clarity is what I was taught in the TA which relates to the NHS as well. Getting a number of people from A to B was also important in the TA when personnel had a job to do or an exercise to attend, they would need equipment, transport, food and the right location. This was something I did on a regular basis and it has helped when organising events and meetings I have facilitated in the NHS.
Sarah Waters, Rehabilitation Administrator and Co-chair, Disability and Neurodiversity Staff Network, Armed Forces Champion
My family served in the Army, Navy, and Home Guard through both World Wars and subsequently. I grew up in a village with an Army Camp near the South coast of England having instilled into me that the freedoms I have are founded on the sacrifices of those who fought for it. We celebrated and honoured many of the local Forces events, especially Remembrance Day, always observing the two minute silence.
I was part of the Sea Scouts and Army youth programmes, and many a weekend was spent at the army camp learning military history, out on the assault course, and practicing on the firing range. I even had the opportunity to play the snare drums in a marching band at the Royal Tournament one year.
When I was seventeen, I applied to the Territorial Army (TA) Royal Corp of Signals. My plan was to spend two years with them and then once finishing school, apply to the Royal Navy to do my nurse training. Whilst I passed all the written and security tests and completed my run and assault course in one of the fastest times for my class, I was told that due to having underlying health conditions, I would not be accepted. I was heartbroken not to be able to serve but was able to stay on as a cadet until I turned 18, with the officers and soldiers understanding my sadness at the decision and jokingly calling me the “mini Vet” saying I’d been in the TA for just under 8 hours.
I still went into nursing and retained my links to the Armed Forces over the years, never forgetting the traditions and skills I learned in my youth. I have done fundraising for charities including the Royal British Legion, Troop Aid, and Help for Heroes. I raise the Armed Forces Day flag every year and will always have treasured memories of my links to the services, and am proud to work alongside armed forces colleagues and veterans in BCHC and the Royal College of Nursing today.
Wendy Muhammad, Trainer/Assessor/Speak Up Champion and Armed Forces Champion
My father served in the Army Medical Corps for 24 years and retired as a Warrant Officer Class 1 (WO1). Moving around like many in the Armed Forces community, I began my education in Catterick, North Yorkshire and left school while living in JHQ Rheindahlen, Germany. Both my brothers joined the Army as Chefs, one completing his service as a Corporal (CPL) and the other as a Warrant Officer Class 1 (WO1). Inevitably, I married a soldier, serving in the Royal Signals and for 14 years had postings to Germany and Shetland Islands, ending up in Birmingham in 1995.
Whilst in Birmingham I decided to join what was then known as the Territorial Army (TA). I joined 48th Signal Squadron (35th Signal Regiment but now under 37th Signal Regiment), where my then husband was posted.
After 12 years of being part of this unit, I rose to the rank of Sergeant. I married a soldier from this unit and I left when I was expecting our daughter in 2006. My husband continued as a Reservist and in 2008 went into Full Time Reserve Service (FTRS) and is currently based in Blandford as the lead for Royal Signals Apprenticeships. I am proud to say he has risen to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and by the time he is ready for retirement in a few years he will have served for 41 years! (not including 3 years as an Army Cadet!)
I was awarded an Operational Medal for a deployment on Op TELIC to Kuwait and Iraq in 2003. In addition, I have also been awarded the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal and Long Service Award Medal. I currently volunteer as a committee member for the Birmingham Branch of the Royal Signals Association.
Gareth Humpage, BCHC Plus Administrator, Armed Forces Chmpion
I left the Royal Air Force in July 2014 after 30 years’ service and joined the Trust in this role initially via an agency where a 12 week contract turned into 15 months before the role was made permanent. At that time there was a period where the Armed Forces Covenant was going to be brought in and I recall attending a launch day where Veterans in the Trust were invited along. Unfortunately it didn’t really catch on and as we know the standards did not continue and the accreditation was lost.
On this occasion though I feel there is more support in place especially from Executive Level and it seems more organised; we have already had more meetings and discussions in the last few months than we did previously. When I saw that the Trust had signed up to the Covenant I e-mailed Richard Kirby to say thank you and to say how proud I was to work for a Trust that took Veterans needs seriously.
Claire Hennessy, Director of Estates and Facilities
When I was 9 years old my sister’s friend, Jane, joined the Wrens and regularly popped in when she was on leave. My joining the Royal Navy was influenced by the stories that Jane used to tell when she visited my sister. I loved hearing about her training and travelling, to a young 9-year-old it sounded so exciting.
I fell into engineering by accident. I joined the Royal Navy at 17 with the aim to travel the world and learn a trade to fall back on when I left. I had to take three exams that profiled what role would suit you best. I came high in the engineer/maths sections.
The Navy had just opened engineering roles up for female candidates as part of the scope for females going to sea for the first time. I watched two videos of the engineering roles. One was a sailor happily soldering a circuit board, the other was a sailor running round in a white anti flash balaclava with smoke everywhere!!, I chose the soldering role!!
This was the start of my engineering career as one of the first batch of female Weapon Engineering Mechanics and amongst the first to serve at sea.
I absolutely loved being at sea and travelling the world with great friends. Where else does King Neptune rise from a paddling pool on the flight deck for the crossing of the line ceremony!! I have fond memories of each mess performing on stage for a ship concerts known as SODS Opera and jumping off the side of the ship into the Mediterranean sea for “hands to bathe”.
There were very serious times onboard ship, and, on those occasions, everyone knew exactly what they were expected to do and where they had to be. This was because the training was outstanding and frequent.
When I left the Royal Navy four years later, I wanted to stay in engineering and I applied for a role as an apprentice electrician at Hammersmith Hospital, which I was offered, and this was the start of my NHS career.
Andrew Sharpe, Principal Prosthetist, West Midlands Rehabilitation Centre
I have had the privilege of treating veterans from the first and second world wars and from the conflicts in Korean, Falklands, and Afghanistan. While I was training, I can remember some first world war veterans with wooden prosthesis, some held together with bailing wire and tape. The technology has changed from wood to microprocessor-controlled prosthesis during my career, however the veterans I have treated have not changed in their character, they all have a can-do spirit and attitude. They are always polite even when things are not going well. The training these people receive in the forces gives them I feel the mindset to strive to do their best which is a strong driving force for myself to do my best to enable my patients to reach their full potential in prosthetic rehabilitation. We are also fortunate to have our partner Blesma who provide support to limbless and injured veterans.