07 November 2024

This Remembrance Day, veteran urges military personnel to access life-saving support

News@2X (2)

This Remembrance Day, WithYou in Cornwall reminds veterans and other members of the armed forces community that they are not alone. The charity offers tailored support to members of the community who are experiencing challenges with drugs or alcohol.

WithYou in Cornwall supports over 100 members of the armed forces community. Graham, a veteran in Cornwall, is urging serving personnel, veterans and families to seek support with any drug, alcohol or mental health challenges they may be experiencing.

Graham, WithYou in Cornwall client, said:

"The support that I have received from WithYou has been different to what I have received elsewhere. It’s very accessible, no matter what you need support with, it’s there. The team is always just a phone call away."

"There’s personalised support for ex-veterans, which I haven’t experienced anywhere else - the events that are available to us, such as the 'Walk and Talks' and the drop-in sessions are brilliant. They’re tailored specifically for veterans, by veterans."

"Having the ability to speak to like-minded individuals with similar experiences is invaluable. A lot of the veterans that I've met have been a similar age to myself with a variety of different experiences in the forces, and with their own unique challenges: from suffering with PTSD to having their battles with alcohol."

WithYou in Cornwall creates a welcoming space where service members and their families can connect through peer support groups and engaging activities. The charity also helps individuals who need support with their mental and physical health or are facing challenges with finding suitable accommodation.

Commenting on the importance of supporting members of the armed forces community, Andy Craze, National Armed Forces Programme Lead at WithYou, said: 

“Remembrance Day is a poignant day for the armed forces community. It is an opportunity to remember past and present members of our community who have served their country.”

“For ex-forces members, the transition back to civilian life can sometimes feel isolating and overwhelming. Here at WithYou, we want our military personnel to know that there is a safe and welcoming space for them here.”

We’ve developed a dedicated programme at WithYou which provides specialist support for veterans and their families.”

“By acknowledging their unique experiences, specific needs and military identity, WithYou is able to better enhance their drug and alcohol recovery.”

“Veterans have given their lives to their country, and we are proud to play a small part in improving access to the support that they, and their families, deserve.”