How Op RESTORE helps veterans in England get the right NHS support for service-related health conditions
If you’ve served in the UK armed forces and are living with physical health problem that is linked to your service, you shouldn’t have to navigate the NHS alone. Op RESTORE can help you access physical health support that’s right for you.
This guide explains what Op RESTORE is, who it’s for and how your GP can refer you.
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This guidance is for England. There are separate guides for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
What is Op RESTORE?
Op RESTORE: The Veterans Physical Health and Wellbeing Service is an NHS service created specifically for people who have served (or are leaving) the UK armed forces.
Its goal is simple: to connect veterans with specialist NHS care that’s tailored to service-related physical health conditions.
It helps by:
- ensuring you can access the NHS care you need
- matching you with clinicians who understand the military and specialise in your condition
- creating a personalised care plan based on your needs and medical history
Who can use Op RESTORE?
If you’ve served in the UK armed forces, even for just a single day, you may be eligible for Op RESTORE if all of the following apply:
You live in England.
You served at least 1 day in the UK armed forces or you’re about to leave.
Your time in service has caused your physical health problem.
Not sure if your condition qualifies?
It’s still worth speaking to your GP. If there’s a service link, Op RESTORE can often help.
If you don’t have a GP, explore how to find a GP in England. And remember to tell them you’ve served.
How do I access the service? (step‑by‑step)
Book a GP appointment and explain that your time in service has caused your physical health problem.
Ask your GP to download the Op RESTORE referral form.
Your GP should complete the form using information from your medical records.
Your GP then emails the form to: imperial.oprestore@nhs.net
You will be contacted – once Op RESTORE receives your information, the process begins.
What happens after the referral?
After your GP has referred you:
- a support worker will get in touch with you
- they’ll keep you updated while reviewing your referral and developing your care plan
- they can help with non‑clinical and welfare support, and make sure your family knows what to expect and where to find help
How Op RESTORE supports you
Specialist NHS care: access to clinicians who understand service‑related injuries and illnesses.
A bespoke care plan: a clear, joined‑up plan based on your medical history and current needs.
Guided navigation: help moving through the NHS so you don’t bounce between services.
Family‑aware support: practical updates and signposting for those close to you.
Non‑clinical help: connections to welfare, benefits and wider veteran support if needed.
Quick checklist
I have a physical health problem linked to my service.
I live in England.
I’ve served at least 1 day in the UK armed forces.
I’ve asked my GP to complete the Op RESTORE referral.
My GP has emailed the referral to imperial.oprestore@nhs.net
I’m ready to speak with a support worker when they call.
You don’t have to do this alone
Navigating care for service‑related health issues can feel complicated.
Op RESTORE exists to make it simpler, so you’re seen by the right people, with a plan that reflects your lived experience.