NHS Lanarkshire and the area’s University Health and Social Care Partnerships (HSCPs) have paid tribute to serving and ex-military personnel during Armed Forces Week.
Craig Cunningham, NHS Lanarkshire’s Armed Forces and Veteran Champion, has issued a message on behalf of partners, who will run a series of special feature articles to coincide with a week of recognition, which begins today.
These will highlight support for veterans, and crucially, the positive contribution former members of the armed forces are making after taking up careers in health and care. Our series starts today focusing on the extensive military experiences of hospital boss, Andrew O’Donnell. Later in the week we’ll meet a former Navy nurse, Amanda Atkinson, now working in the vanguard of primary care.
“Employing members of the Armed Forces community, whether veterans or reservists, has and continues to have a truly positive and beneficial impact on our efforts to provide exemplary care across all our services,” said Mr Cunningham, who is also Head of Commissioning and Performance for South Lanarkshire University HSCP.
“These are challenging times for health and care and innovation and the ongoing commitment and dedication of our staff is fundamental. Stories from two of our incredible colleagues, Andrew and Amanda, personify the invaluable contribution ex-military personnel make to the wider partnership and, in turn, lives in Lanarkshire.”
Mr Cunningham, continued: “In relation to the provision of health services, NHS Lanarkshire and the University HSCPs offer a dedicated pathway, Veterans First Point (V1P), for veterans and their families living in Lanarkshire who require psychological support and assistance for a range of other social, welfare, and support needs.
“This service was designed by veterans, for veterans, and their families, and is staffed by psychologists and veteran peer workers, offering advice and support when they need it most. V1P is also there for veterans and their families who experience any issues moving from a life in the military to living as a civilian.
“Additionally, we also work with the Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) who provide direct emotional and practical support for veterans whilst on a medical pathway, in accessing other services which might assist the patient in their lives outside the hospital environment, for example, home supports and respite breaks.
“Overall – Armed Forces Week provides a chance to reiterate our collective support and appreciation for our colleagues with military backgrounds, serving personnel and the exemplary support we have in place for veterans.”
Extensive military experience of hospital boss
The first in our series of Q&As with our health and care professionals who have joined our ranks following military careers is now live. Andrew O’Donnell tells us how he’s moved from Army to the frontline of healthcare. https://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/slhscp/news/article/270/extensive_military_experience_that_steels_hospital_boss
