Physical health support for veterans in Wales
If you’ve served in the UK armed forces and are struggling with your physical health, help is out there. There are a range of services that provide physical health support for veterans in Wales. Accessing these can help you get the right support for your needs.
Here’s a clear guide on what you need to know.
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This guidance is for Wales. There are separate guides for England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Start with your GP
Your GP should be your first step in accessing the physical health support you need.
Under Armed Forces Covenant guidance, doctors are encouraged to consider whether your condition might be linked to your military service. If it is, your GP can note this on referrals, helping ensure your case is understood in the right context.
Specialist support for service-related injuries in Wales
For more complex needs, Wales has the Veterans Trauma Network (VTN Wales). This service coordinates advice, assessment and referrals, helping veterans get the right care when they need it.
Whether it’s guidance for clinicians or direct support to access advanced care, the network helps ensure no one falls through the cracks.
It’s best to talk to your GP or medical practitioner about referring you to the Veterans Trauma Network, but you can contact the service directly.
Practical tips while navigating physical health support in Wales
Keep a record of your service history and any injury documents – this helps clinicians provide the best care.
Discuss your concerns openly with your GP – they are the gateway to referrals, specialist services and rehabilitation.
Ask about Armed Forces and Veterans Champions in your local health board – they advocate for veterans within the NHS.
NHS prosthetics and rehabilitation for veterans in Wales
If you need prosthetic limbs or rehabilitation, Wales has specialist centres in Cardiff, Swansea, and Wrexham.
These services provide high-quality care for service-related injuries and are part of the wider physical health support available to veterans in Wales.
The Veterans Trauma Network can help guide you to the most appropriate service.
Community support for veterans in Wales
Physical health is only one part of wellbeing. Support is also available to help you stay active, independent and connected.
Local community groups, charities and veteran support organisations across Wales offer:
- peer support
- advice and guidance
- help accessing health and wellbeing services
The VALOUR network in Wales focuses on building confidence, improving physical health and creating strong social connections. It offers safe, welcoming spaces where veterans can access support, take part in activities and be connected into NHS services and specialist care when needed.
Organisations that can help
The GOV.UK veteran support directory allows you to search and filter organisations in one place. It’s a helpful tool for finding services that fit your situation.
You have options – and you’re not alone
Getting help for physical health can feel challenging, but Wales offers NHS care, specialist networks and trusted support organisations to help guide you.
Start with your GP, explore specialist services like the Veterans Trauma Network for service-related injuries, and make use of community support available in your area.
Remember: Your health matters. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.