MILITARY veterans with mental health and physical problems will be given better access to services in Dorset thanks to a new initiative.

Andy Gritt and Vlad Rocas, who have more than 20 years experience in the armed forces, head up the newly formed Armed Forces (Veterans) Community Health and Wellbeing Team set up by Dorset HealthCare.

Based in Bournemouth, they will ensure military personnel, reservists, war veterans and their families are given access to health and welfare support as they transition from military to civilian life.

Andy, said: “There are 9,000 military veterans currently living in Dorset, and increasing numbers of homeless veterans who may need support can take around 10-14 years, post conflict, to come forward and accept they need help.

“During this period they can spiral into social decline, where they may experience drink and drug problems, relationship breakdown or lose their homes. We can now help them on the road to recovery and tailor care to their specific need.

“Many of us have heard of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but there are many more post service conditions, and we forget that these often have a knock-on effect on their families, especially children.”

Andy and Vlad will work alongside garrisons such as Bovington, the Royal Marines in Poole and the personal recovery unit at Tidworth Garrison who will directly refer cases to them.

The new team’s formation coincides with Dorset HealthCare’s pledge to the Armed Forces Covenant, a statement and moral obligation which exists between the nation, the Government and the Armed Forces. Published in May 2011, the covenant means Dorset HealthCare agrees to uphold its values through its own vision of ensuring the Armed Forces Community (AFC) live longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives after service.

Dorset HealthCare signed up to the covenant in September last year, with the support of well-known Falklands veteran Simon Weston.

For more information about the service, contact Team Leader Andy Gritt on 01202 584440 or email him at andrew.gritt@dhuft.nhs.uk.