Mental health and veterans: supporting you, your business and your team

Armed forces charities are to receive £5m in additional funding to support serving and former armed forces personnel, the government has announced. The move is in part spurred by the effects of the recent events in Afghanistan.

Leo Docherty, Minister for Defence People and Veterans, said of the funding: “This targeted increase in funding to charities, both large and small, will allow those who served to receive a gold standard of care across the board. We are forever grateful to the serving personnel and veterans who aided the people of Afghanistan and will ensure they get the support they need and deserve in the most accessible methods possible.”

Your business may well employ veterans and reservists or members of their family and may be concerned for their welfare, given the feelings evoked by events in Afghanistan. You may even be a veteran who served there yourself.

As head of the Hereford Office and an employment lawyer with a particular interest in businesses owned by or who employ veterans, I have dealt with employee relations issues caused by concerns relating to the impact of the geopolitical changes in Afghanistan. These, coupled with the very significant changes in workplace culture and practices caused by Covid-19, has increased feelings of isolation, lack of motivation or discontent.

These have manifested in a wide range of ways – from performance or mental health issues to conflict in the workplace and more. Equally, I have dealt with businesses and employees who have responded to the emotion brought to the surface by the recent challenging times by demonstrating renewed vigour and enthusiasm.

As a military spouse myself and, therefore, part of a family that has given, in one way or another, a significant part of the last 20 years to the cause in Afghanistan (whether serving directly or waiting safely at home missing and worrying about a loved one) I understand all too well the range of emotions experienced as a result of the continuing crisis in Afghanistan.

Much of our Hereford team is made up of military spouses, veterans and former reservists who are supported by a dedicated defence, security and the forces sector. We are passionate about making sure defence people and businesses receive the gold standard of care they deserve in recognition of their service. We are proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant and Gold Award winners in the MoD Employers Recognition Scheme.

We are happy to offer discounts to serving and former armed forces personnel, across both private client and business legal services:

Speak to us today to find out more about how we could support you, your business and your team