How Veterans NHS Wales provides mental health support for veterans in Wales
Leaving the armed forces can be a huge transition: mentally, emotionally and physically. Many veterans carry the pride and resilience forged in military service into civilian life, but some also face challenges that can affect wellbeing long after they hang up their uniform.
For veterans living in Wales, there’s a dedicated NHS service designed to help with just that. Veterans NHS Wales offers specialist mental health support tailored to the unique needs of ex‑service personnel.
Here’s a guide on what the service provides and how you can access it.
Time to read:
This guidance is for Wales. There are separate guides for England and Northern Ireland.
If you’re in crisis
If you’re in immediate danger:
Call 999
For non-emergency medical assistance:
Visit NHS 111 Wales or
call 0845 46 47
What is Veterans NHS Wales?
Veterans NHS Wales is a specialist NHS service for veterans who are experiencing mental health difficulties linked to their service. It’s available across Wales and is part of the NHS, so all the care is free.
At the heart of the service are veteran therapists. These clinicians understand the complexities of service-related stress, trauma, adjustment issues and other health concerns veterans may face.
Specialist mental health support
Veterans NHS Wales mainly provides specialist mental health support.
What you can get:
Assessment and screening to see what help you need.
One-to-one therapy for anxiety, depression, PTSD and other issues.
Flexible appointments – in person, by phone or online.
The service gives veterans a safe space to talk to someone who understands military life.
Physical health and wellbeing
Veterans NHS Wales focuses on mental health, but you can also get support for physical health. Your GP or local health board can help if you need other NHS services. Veteran therapists can also connect you with specialist care if needed.
How to get support
There are 2 ways to get support.
Self-referral: You can refer yourself online through the Veterans Wales website.
Referral by others: Your GP, a veteran charity or someone supporting you can refer you.
After your referral, a clinician will contact you to arrange an initial assessment. This helps plan the right support for you.
What to expect after referral
After your assessment, a clinician will contact you by phone or email. This is so they can learn more about your situation.
From there, they might offer:
- therapy sessions
- ongoing wellbeing support
- help accessing other services if needed
This makes sure you get the right care at the right time.
Beyond Veterans NHS Wales
While Veterans NHS Wales plays a central role in veteran healthcare in Wales, it’s part of a bigger network of support.
Many charities and community groups in Wales help veterans and their families with their mental and physical wellbeing. They can also help with peer support, work advice and practical issues.
Other 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.