Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps he is taking to create referral pathways within custody suites and local probation services for Armed Forces veterans in custody to receive specialist support.

His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) works with a range of partners to support veterans in the criminal justice system both in custody and community. Operation (Op) NOVA provides tailored support and links veterans to services including Op FORTITUDE (housing), Op RESTORE (physical health), RECONNECT (continuity of care on release), and Op COURAGE (mental health support). HMPPS also works with charities such as SSAFA, the Armed Forces Charity (formerly Soldiers, Sailors & Airmen Families Association), who deliver prison in-reach services across the prison estate to veterans, while almost all prisons have a Veterans in Custody Support Officer to provide specialist support and help veterans prepare for release.

HMPPS helps prison and probation staff to understand the experiences and needs of veterans through training, guidance and regular events. This helps staff recognise the impact that military service can have, understand the support available, and to connect veterans with the right help. HMPPS also provides an online veteran’s support map, making it easier for veterans, their families and professionals to find services and access support. Together, these initiatives help ensure that those who have served receive the support they need to move forward positively, both in custody and in the community.