Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what support is available for members of the armed forces who have served in Northern Ireland.

This Government recognises the important contribution and sacrifice of those who served in Northern Ireland to keep us safe, and that of the families who enabled them to do so.

Veterans who served in Northern Ireland are eligible for a range of support, wherever they reside in the United Kingdom: veterans can access tailored employment support via the Career Transition Partnership, which supports those leaving military service in search of new job opportunities, and Op ASCEND, a new employment pathway for veterans operating across the United Kingdom.

Veterans who are resident in England can access specialist care for physical and mental health conditions via Op RESTORE and Op COURAGE respectively. Alternative provision is available in Scotland and Wales, as responsibility for health is devolved. For those who may be homeless or at risk of homelessness, housing guidance and support is available across the country via Op FORTITUDE, a single referral pathway to connect veterans with help and support.

For veterans resident in Northern Ireland, the Veterans’ Welfare Service Northern Ireland is a specialist statutory welfare service for veterans and their families. The service provides information and practical support, including physiotherapy and psychological therapies for eligible veterans. The Northern Ireland Veterans’ Commissioner and 11 Veterans’ Champions advocate for veterans’ needs and support veterans in the local community.

Where historic investigations impact on veterans who served during Op BANNER, I have committed that the Ministry of Defence will continue to provide welfare and legal support to those affected.