Category: Health

Prioritize your health with resources on fitness, mental health, healthcare services, and safety practices, ensuring well-being for individuals and families.

Veterans’ Mental Health Conference

We are delighted to announce that we have secured a date for the 2025 King’s Centre for Military Health Research Veterans’ Mental Health Conference (VMHC) on Monday 19 May 2025. The event will be held at Bush House, Strand, London.

Tickets are not yet available to buy, so for now please save the date. More information, including ticket sales, will be released over the coming months via this mailing list.

Please note the FiMT Research Centre Conference will conveniently be held in the same location, the day after, on Tuesday 20 May 2025. You can also subscribe to the FiMT Research Centre mailing list for updates on the FiMT RC Conference, as these are separate events.

We very much look forward to seeing you at the conference in 2025. We will, as usual, have a great line up of speakers and there will be ample opportunity to network with colleagues from across the sector.

4th July 2024
New Video of Support For PTSD Sufferers

PTSD Resolution, a UK charity providing free and effective therapy for the mental welfare of Forces’ Veterans, Reservists and their families, has launched a new video to raise awareness of the mental health issues faced by veterans and the support available to them.

The film’s release was on 6 June, the 80th anniversary of D-Day, paying tribute to the sacrifices made by the armed forces.

The charity is highlighting the often-overlooked struggles of veterans, reservists and their families as they cope with the psychological impact of their service. PTSD Resolution’s film aims to shed light on these issues and offer hope to those in need by showcasing the free, tailored therapy provided by the charity’s nationwide network of 200 therapists.

Colonel Tony Gauvain (Retired), chairman of PTSD Resolution, emphasised the importance of the film’s message: “On this significant anniversary, we remember the bravery and sacrifices of our armed forces. However, we must also acknowledge the ongoing mental health battles many veterans face long after their service ends. This film serves as a reminder that help is available, and no one should suffer in silence.”

Since its founding in 2009, PTSD Resolution has received over 4,000 referrals, completing therapy in an average of seven sessions. The charity’s unique approach allows them to support veterans facing addiction issues or those in prison, as well as family members who may experience secondary trauma from living with a traumatised veteran.

The film launch is part of PTSD Resolution’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness and provide support to the armed forces community. With a lean operation and no salaried staff or assets, the charity ensures that funds are used primarily to deliver therapy and conduct essential research and public information campaigns.

14th June 2024
Providing Support For Those Living With MS
Mutual Support is a unique military group that sits within the National MS Society and thus benefits from utilisation of the National groups training, oversight, knowledge communications and safeguarding.

We report routinely and fulfil returns annually to MSS HQ to assure financial and safeguarding propriety.

Mutual Support was founded to provide support for military personnel, veterans and their dependants living with MS. The need for a National Support Group was clear as although there are many MS groups, none understood the specific ramifications an MS diagnosis can cause for military personnel.

For military personnel the impact can be life changing in that it may enforce their leaving the service and both them and their family losing the comfort blanket of social, family and professional inclusion within the military institution. Mutual Support restores the opportunity to experience military level support, caring, love and gallows humour for not just the Booty, Crab and Jack Tar but crucially their families as well.

A non-profit organisation, Mutual Support is run wholly by volunteers who retain the enthusiasm, dedication and good humour from their military background. They commit themselves to provide and maintain a range of services to serving and discharged personnel and their families.

Our Online services and particularly the twice yearly Well-being Weekends enable existing membership and newly diagnosed joiners to access empathetic, knowledgeable support. Our dedicated, friendly and enthusiastic team works alongside certified venues and targeted services agencies to ensure professional delivery of our functions whilst retaining the military ethos and atmosphere which our members request and enjoy.

The Well-being weekends are fully funded for members with grant funding from many service and veterans charities but additionally via membership fundraising and individual donations.

We offer support, signposting services and online forums/activities. These are consolidated with quarterly information newsletters containing member submissions and separate communications acknowledging organisation supporters and contributors.

Mutual Support offers free membership and provides:
- Empathy – all of the volunteer Co-ordinating team, support volunteers and members live with MS.
- Support – from a dedicated and trained Support Team and Attending Patron Clinical Psychologist, “These benefits are priceless and life affirming and life changing.”
- Information – Via Newsletter, online Forums, Attended and Virtual Weekend speakers.
- Camaraderie – via dedicated military themed functions and tri-service membership.
- Wellbeing – from attending speakers, professional carers and therapists.
Winners of 2023 Soldiering on Awards for Family Values, we hail from the Military and serve the Military Family.

Learn more about Mutual Support here
11th June 2024
CISTC – Building Skills for a Career in Construction

In the ever-evolving construction industry safety and expertise are paramount. The industry demands a workforce that is not only skilled but also well-versed in health and safety protocols. This is where the Construction Industry Safety Training Centre (CISTC) steps in, offering a beacon of excellence in training and development.

Committed to delivering top-tier training, CISTC blends expert instruction with practical, hands-on experience, ensuring participants are thoroughly prepared for the diverse challenges they will face in the construction sector.

Partnered with the CITB, our centre is more than just a training facility – it is a hub of knowledge, skill-building, and support. With nine large, air-conditioned training rooms and an expansive four-acre plant training field, we provide a realistic environment conducive to both theoretical learning and hands-on practical experience. At CISTC, we believe that a well-trained workforce is the cornerstone of a safe and efficient construction environment.

We understand that comfort and convenience play significant roles in effective learning. That’s why our canteen serves home-cooked meals alongside free tea and coffee, and we offer ample free on-site parking. Every detail is designed with our trainees in mind, ensuring they have a pleasant and productive experience.

At the heart of our centre are our professionally qualified instructors. With years of industry experience, they are dedicated to sharing their knowledge and skills, helping trainees to pass their courses the first time. Our efficient office team complement this by keeping track of certification renewals, ensuring that our trainees remain compliant and up to date without the hassle of expired qualifications.

We collaborate closely with students, employers, and the community to address the growing construction skill shortages and create opportunities for career advancement, benefiting the entire industry. Our courses are designed for entry level and to pave the way for career progression. We offer pathways to more senior roles, equipping students personal and professional growth with the leadership skills necessary for greater responsibilities.

In alignment with our commitment to community and national service, we proudly support the Armed Forces Covenant. We recognise the invaluable contributions of Serving Personnel, both Regular and Reservists, Veterans, and military families. Their dedication and discipline are qualities we deeply respect and integrate into our training ethos. To demonstrate our commitment to giving back to those who have served our country, all ex-miliary personal benefit from discounted training.

Conveniently located near Farnham, Surrey, just ten minutes from junction 5 of the M3, our centre is easily accessible. We operate Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm, ready to accommodate the busy schedules of our trainees.

As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our commitment to improving the skills of current and future generations. We invite you to join us in this journey and take the next step in your career.

For more information, contact us via email at info@cistc.co.uk or call 01252 855433. Join us at CISTC, where elite training meets exceptional outcomes.

5th June 2024
UK Veterans Restore Gibraltar Military Landmark

A team of Armed Forces veterans have returned from a week-long trip to Gibraltar, where they have helped restore Lord Airey’s Battery which sits on top of the iconic Mediterranean rock.

The team are from Alabaré, a UK charity supporting vulnerable veterans and those who have experienced homelessness since leaving the military. Alabaré runs homes, mental health support services and wellbeing activities dedicated to supporting veterans back into healthy, independent lives.

Each of the veterans who took part have experienced difficulties in their civilian lives which have included being homeless, in debt, loss of employment, addiction as well as struggling with their mental health and wellbeing. The Gibraltar Veterans Heritage Project is being run as part of Alabaré’s Boots on the Ground programme, which promotes and encourages veterans’ mental and physical well-being through outdoor activity. The trip, and the energy and commitment that they have put into the week long project, is part of each veteran’s recovery journey, and has a lasting positive impact on their self-belief.

Matt, a Royal Navy veteran, who took part, said: “I had a brilliant time in Gibraltar. I have realised that there are some things in this World that you just can’t buy. We achieved more things in one week than some do in a lifetime. We improvised and overcome no matter what the situation. I learnt to never give up on hope.”

This is the third consecutive year that a team from veterans’ charity Alabaré will have helped restore militaria in Gibraltar.

Sitting above the territory, Lord Airey’s Battery is an iconic element of Gibraltar’s heritage, having been built by British troops in 1891 and seen service throughout both World Wars. Since being decommissioned 1976, the gun has fallen into disrepair and is now the subject of a renovation project spearheaded by military historian Pete Jackson, Trustee of the Gibraltar Heritage Trust. The Alabaré team worked under Pete’s guidance for 5 days, significantly moving the restoration forward and helping to preserve this piece of militaria for years to come.

Simon Frith is Alabaré’s Wellbeing Enterprise Manager. Simon lived in Gibraltar for a short time as a child, and visited when he was serving on HMS Glasgow. He said: “Projects like this have some incredibly profound impact on those taking part and are so much more than you’d assume at first glance. For some the trip becomes that light bulb moment that then opens the door to thinking about a bigger future and that they gain a lot when they get back out in the World and their comfort zones. You see ambition return and mindset shift which is inspiring to witness when some of the guys have felt very ‘stuck’ for a while.

“Health benefits are a standout win for those attending as doing physically demanding activities is a great reminder that we have to invest in our health if we want to do more of these things, we frequently see beneficiaries go away with a clearer focus on wellbeing and lifestyle.

“The support from volunteers and generosity of our benefactors and donors also gives those attending that they are believed in and valued, which can be very powerful when you feel that your self-belief has been battered by life events. This creates a strong sense of wishing to do a good job of what we cane to achieve and repay the faith and kindness shown.”

27th May 2024
Veterans Have Access To New Recovery Course

Three NHS Recovery Colleges have come together to offer Armed Forces veterans in London a specialist recovery course focusing on improving wellbeing and mental health.

Camden and Islington, Thurrock, and South London and Maudsley will deliver the six-week course, in Islington, North London. The tutors have been trained by the Recovery College team at Armed Forces charity Help for Heroes.

Developed by veterans for veterans, it is an informal educational provision, which looks at improving an individual’s wellbeing, discusses some of the specific challenges faced by veterans, and provides some clear tools to support ongoing health. It is designed to help individuals explore their feelings and discover what recovery means to them.

The Recovery College course will be limited to nine people and will be delivered over June and July.

Service users of Camden and Islington OpCourage service, or who are a resident of, or work in either Camden or Islington, can enrol on the course by visiting northlondonmentalhealth.nhs.uk/recoverycollege and clicking on ‘how to enrol.’

For those based in South London, enrolment is online at slamrecoverycollege.co.uk/enrol.html, and for those who live in Thurrock – or work in a caring or professional role with Thurrock residents – the contact details are thurrockrocollege@mpft.nhs.uk or 01375 809 708.

Recovery College tutor John, a veteran with 24 years of Army service, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to develop life skills that will support participants in dealing with challenging times and building inner resources.

“It’s important to remember that what is learned on this training package can also be passed on to loved ones, colleagues, and the participant’s wider social network. As it’s predominantly a veteran-led program the tutors can readily identify with attendees and vice versa. It’s a powerful peer-to-peer programme that results in lasting change.”

Jane, another of the tutors delivering the course, added: “We are really looking forward to meeting and working with the students. The topics each week are interesting, and it’s great to know that, as well as the students having a chance to talk, they will also get to take away some new ways of looking after themselves.

“I know I learned a lot when I did the training and am still using some of techniques. I’m lucky enough to work in collaboration with the Camden and Islington OpCourage service, and I’m also hoping that some of the students will be interested in participating in a major exhibition this summer in the gallery at St Pancras Hospital.”

The three-month exhibition, launching on 27 June, is in collaboration with the Arts Project and the Soldiers’ Arts Academy CIC and welcomes contributions of artwork by veterans from across the capital.

Related events will include talks, spoken musical evenings, film events, and panel discussions. The Arts Project has presented exhibitions in the gallery for the past 20 years, including ‘The Way Ahead’ which was a tribute to veteran’s recovery journey in 2014.

Help for Heroes champions the Armed Forces community and helps them live well after service. The charity helps veteran families to recover and get on with their lives. It has already supported more than 31,000 people and won’t stop until every veteran gets the support they deserve.

The Charity supports veteran families, from any branch of the UK military – regulars or reserves – irrespective of length or place of service, and locally embedded civilians (and their families) who worked under the command of UK Armed Forces.

21st May 2024
Invictus Games Participants Saw Positive Benefits

Competitors in the Invictus Games Sydney 2018 experienced greater positive impacts on their wellbeing compared to non-competitors, according to new research funded by Forces in Mind Trust.

The research highlighted the importance of the “between Games” activities to maintain health and wellbeing levels and found that the strategies that provide the most benefit were centred more on mental fitness skills and resilience training than on sports development.

Research during the preparations for the Invictus Games The Hague 2020 found that adapted sports, such as virtual cycling, continued to provide community and resilience training that underpinned rehabilitation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The evaluation of Invictus Games competitors – who are all wounded injured or sick serving or former personnel was carried out by an international collaboration of academic researchers including Imperial College London.

The report was launched at the IGF Conversation, as part of the Invictus Games Foundation’s 10th Anniversary celebrations.

Lead Researcher, Dr Celina Shirazipour, Assistant Professor at Cedar Sinai Medical Centre, said: “This research really highlighted for me the importance of focusing on mental skills alongside building in training for the day after the Invictus Games, not just the Games themselves. I think this will have an impact on the way that sport is viewed in recovery, by using it as a catalyst alongside developing life skills and mental skills.

“These findings could be used to develop tools that can support improved training of coaching, program development, participant experiences and well-being outcomes. Ultimately improving the quality of programming and outcomes.”

Dominic Reid OBE, Chief Executive Officer, Invictus Games Foundation, said: “We are delighted to share this report after a long time in the making. We are grateful to Forces in Mind Trust for supporting this work. And particularly for their flexibility in extending the report grant during the pandemic. The findings from that period certainly help paint a picture of how sport and esports kept the community together through their recovery at that time.

“These findings have been shared with our community of participating nations to develop ongoing programming. We are determined to continue building on the lessons learned to ensure that best practice is shared for the international wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veteran community. We’ve strengthened our provision of activity beyond the Games based on some of these findings. And we look forward to doing more in this space.”

Michelle Alston Chief Executive of Forces in Mind Trust, said: “Recognising the specific appropriate support wounded, injured and sick serving and former personnel require as they transition to civilian life is crucial. Competitive sports have helped many to recover and reclaim their identity beyond their injury. This research provides solid evidence that shows the benefits of these programmes, whilst providing valuable best practise and examples that will improve how we help Service personnel in the future.”

You can access the report here

16th May 2024
Pioneering Intervention for Complex PTSD

Early-stage research shows promising findings for a new intervention designed specifically to treat complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD), a sister condition to PTSD that was only formally recognised in 2018 by the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11).

The trial was carried out by researchers from Edinburgh Napier University, King’s College London, Ulster University and Combat Stress, and was funded by Forces in Mind Trust.

The results indicated that the new therapy called Enhanced Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation (ESTAIR) was safe and effective to use. ESTAIR is the first intervention to specifically target CPTSD and this is the first study of a dedicated treatment for CPTSD amongst UK military veterans.

PTSD and complex PTSD are mental health conditions that occur after having been exposed to a traumatic event. Individuals with CPTSD experience the same symptoms as PTSD but also further symptoms that are intended to capture pervasive psychological disturbances associated commonly with chronic and multiple traumatic events.

Existing research suggests that CPTSD is more common than PTSD in ex-Service personnel, and that existing therapies effective for treating PTSD might be less effective for CPTSD, which highlights the need for developing and testing new interventions for what is a debilitating condition.

ESTAIR was delivered to 28 former UK military personnel receiving treatment for CPTSD, whilst 28 more were given treatment as usual (TAU). This consisted of psychosocial education and monitoring, rather than an active therapy alternative like cognitive behavioural therapy.

Patients treated with ESTAIR experienced large reductions in their CPTSD symptoms with only 18% of the patients retaining symptoms consistent with CPTSD at the conclusion of the study. 84% retained the diagnosis in the TAU group. Participants indicated that they viewed the treatment as having a positive impact on multiple dimensions of their lives and further positive feedback was received that few participants dropped out of the study.

The results suggest that the newly designed treatment is suitable, safe, and effective. Based on these promising findings, a larger trial is now required to compare the effectiveness of ESTAIR in veterans with CPTSD against an alternative treatment, such as cognitive behavioural therapy.

Professor Dominic Murphy at Combat Stress and King’s College London said: “For those veterans who experience complex PTSD, this can cause real distress. As such, we are excited by the improvements highlighted by our new intervention for Complex PTSD: ESTAIR. Our hope is that we will be able to build upon this trial, and in time, offer ESTAIR widely to those experiencing Complex PTSD.”

Professor Thanos Karatzias at Edinburgh Napier University said: “Our research work the last few years has inspired the development and refinement of ESTAIR as the first ever dedicated treatment for ICD-11CPTSD. We are delighted that these findings demonstrate that ESTAIR is an acceptable and potentially effective treatment for CPTSD. Results provide an important breakthrough in trauma treatments that will bring hope to many CPTSD sufferers in the UK and beyond.”

Michelle Alston, Chief Executive of Forces in Mind Trust said: “Whilst most Service personnel make a successful transition to civilian life, some experience health issues before or during transition that have a deep impact. The positive results of this study are vital in providing the evidence base to provide specific support for those who experience CPTSD: an important step in improving the lives and transition of those affected by CPTSD and their families.”

3rd May 2024
Veterans in the UK Security Industry

Many roles in the security industry attract veterans, who bring valuable skills from their military service. However, this group may be more susceptible to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Forces’ mental health charity PTSD Resolution is collaborating with professional associations like ASIS UK and the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals (WCoSP) to address the impact of trauma within the security community.

In a groundbreaking study in 2020, Professor Mark Button from the University of Portsmouth shed light on the alarming state of mental health among UK security personnel. The survey, involving 750 security officers, revealed that 40% exhibited symptoms consistent with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Additionally, the findings highlighted the frequent threats of violence faced by these individuals, with 43% experiencing such threats at least monthly and 10% on a daily basis. Over 30% reported physical assaults in the workplace annually.

The situation is exacerbated by the escalating violent crime rates, particularly in the retail sector. The British Retail Consortium’s 2024 report indicated a staggering 50% increase in daily violent incidents against retail workers compared to the previous year. This trend not only jeopardises physical safety but also takes a toll on mental well-being.

Despite growing awareness, employers in the sector often lack the resources and professional support to adequately address mental health issues. Unrecognised symptoms can lead to increased absenteeism, declining job performance, and even suicide. To protect those who safeguard public and private spaces, it is crucial to prioritise their mental health needs.

PTSD Resolution, established in 2009, has been instrumental in providing free, effective mental health support to veterans, reservists, and their families. Accredited by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the charity has handled over 4,000 referrals, offering Human Givens Therapy (HGT) that typically concludes within an average of seven sessions.

The introduction of Trauma Awareness Training for Employers by PTSD Resolution marks a significant step in broadening support for trauma-affected individuals. By equipping company owners, managers, and HR staff with the knowledge to recognise and address trauma, the charity aims to foster more compassionate and informed workplaces.

Graham Bassett, a security recruitment specialist and trustee of PTSD Resolution, emphasises the importance of specialised support and intervention, given the increasing prevalence of PTSD and trauma-related conditions among security staff and veterans.

Veteran’s Experience

Jonathan Thomas, a partner at Assist Security Group (ASG) Protect and an army reservist and former Royal Marine, highlights the unique strengths that veterans bring to the security sector. Their adaptability, problem-solving skills, and resilience, honed through military service, enable them to excel in challenging operational environments. The integration of veterans into civilian security teams introduces valuable perspectives and enhances overall team cohesion.

Mark’s story exemplifies the importance of employer awareness and support. As an army veteran working as a security officer, Mark experienced trauma symptoms following an attempted robbery at his workplace. His manager, Karen, recognised the signs and encouraged him to seek help through the company’s employee assistance programme. With timely access to therapy at PTSD Resolution, Mark learned coping techniques and experienced a significant improvement in his symptoms.

The collaboration between PTSD Resolution and professional associations like ASIS UK, the Security Institute, City Security Council and WCoSP is crucial in addressing mental health within the security industry. By integrating expertise, these partnerships aim to destigmatise mental health issues, promote open dialogue, and ensure a supportive environment for all security personnel.

Letitia Emeana, Chair of ASIS UK’s Board of Directors, emphasises the importance of driving a culture shift across the security sector, encouraging staff to be more open about their mental health without fear of stigma. James Sarson, a police officer and member of WCoSP, highlights the company’s commitment to supporting charities and organisations that provide mental health assistance across various sectors.

By prioritising mental health and fostering collaborations between charities and professional associations, the security industry is taking vital steps to enhance the well-being of its members, improve operational effectiveness, and ultimately contribute to public safety.

If you are affected by any of the issues described in the article, please contact PTSD Resolution.

30th April 2024
PTSD Intervention Shows Promise in UK Study

The feasibility trial of a potential new non-trauma focused talking therapy with veterans showed promising results, and has led to new funding for a larger-scale study.

Funded by Forces in Mind Trust, King’s College London undertook a small-scale study of ex-Service personnel with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which compared Trauma Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (TF-CBT) with the new therapy, Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM).

Forces in Mind Trust is now co-funding a large follow-on study to further explore the viability of a new therapy. It is co-funded by FiMT and a partnership between the Medical Research Council (MRC) and National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories is a ‘talking therapy’ with its roots in Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) which seeks to understand and change verbal and non-verbal language patterns to enable someone to think differently about something that has distressed them.

The feasibility trial was conducted with 35 ex-Service personnel undertaking the Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories therapy over two to four sessions in a period of three weeks, and asked participants to recall their memory of their experience, without requiring them to directly visit the traumatic event.

The results from those who took part in this new psychological intervention showed a large reduction in their PTSD scores and nearly half (48%) of participants no longer had a PTSD diagnosis at 20 weeks after therapy, compared to just 16% of those receiving TF-CBT in the study. In addition, no adverse effects were reported by the participants.

The trial met seven of the eight tests necessary to demonstrate feasibility, with the results highlighting the possibility of Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories as a viable alternative to the current Trauma Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, offering greater reductions in PTSD over a shorter time period, also resulting in notable cost-savings.

However, this was a small-scale study to show the feasibility of this new intervention in the UK, and requires further research with a larger sample. Thanks to the promising results in this study, Forces in Mind Trust has awarded £329,000 for King’s College London to further explore the viability of NLP-based therapies as a treatment for PTSD in UK veterans in a larger trial. The remainder of this £1.9m study will be funded by the MRC and NIHR partnership.

The new study will trial an NLP-based intervention for PTSD called Fast Imagery Reversal Script for Trauma-release (FIRST), which has modified and improved upon Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories. A further study delivering the intervention is now also being trialled with NHS workers with PTSD in a study funded by the NIHR.

Jackie Sturt, Professor of Behavioural Medicine in Nursing, King’s College London, said: “Mental health therapies too often have long waiting lists and, unfortunately, therapies offered do not always have the best scientific evidence supporting their use. We are grateful to FiMT, MRC and NIHR for supporting our research to develop and test brief and effective interventions to military veterans and NHS staff living with PTSD.

“These communities give so much in the course of their employment and yet can suffer so much as a consequence. Our research holds the real opportunity of shortening those waiting lists and getting welcomed therapies to people much more quickly so they can continue to live their working and personal lives to the full.”

Michelle Alston, Chief Executive of Forces in Mind Trust said: “Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories has shown positive results so far in helping veterans with PTSD. The non-trauma focused nature of the intervention, its quick time-scale and lack of adverse effects are impressive, and offer a potential promising alternative for those ex-Service personnel living with PTSD.

“FiMT are very pleased that funding has been awarded by the NIHR to further explore NLP-based trauma intervention treatment, and that we are able to co-fund the next step in bringing a new treatment for ex-Service personnel experiencing PTSD.”

9th April 2024