A COVENANT has been signed with the armed forces in Dorset to enhance the care available to veterans.

Dorset HealthCare has joined up with representatives of the armed forces to sign the Corporate Covenant Pledge.

Around 89,000 ex-servicemen and women are estimated to be living in Dorset, with 10.5million across the UK.

And new figures also reveal that veterans are more likely to report long-term illnesses, including depression, heart problems and diabetes.

Stigma concerning mental health problems is particularly problematic for military forces, something Dorset health services have pledged to tackle with better awareness of the service available in the county.

Andy Gritt, locality manager for Mental Health at Dorset HealthCare and Trust Lead for the Armed Forces Community within the Trust, said: "We want to reduce the stigmas facing members of the armed forces experiencing difficulties accessing health care including mental health issues, this is particularly key for individuals and their families finishing their service.

"As part of this, we have created a Transition Toolkit as returning to civilian life presents unique challenges and many can find this difficult once the discipline and routine of the military is removed.

"We recognise the huge value and contribution of serving personnel, both regular and reservists, veterans and military families within our community. Each and every individual deserves to receive care that will support and rehabilitate veterans and their families and this pledge marks our ongoing mission to reach this goal."

Jon Beake, regional employer engagement director for Wessex Reserve Forces' & Cadets' Association, added: "Dorset HealthCare's public adoption and signing of the Corporate Covenant during their annual members’ meeting demonstrates their high levels of employer support towards defence personnel and their families, including Reservists, Armed Forces Veterans and Cadets.

"We value any employers' commitment, but Dorset HealthCare has developed some far reaching pledges and we are keen to work with them, and other Dorset organisations, to build further support for mutual benefit."