The Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner’s Office held its eighth in a series of Veterans’ Information Roadshows in the historic city of Londonderry recently.
The aim of the Information Roadshows is to better inform veterans of ‘veteran friendly’ services and organisations within their local and regional areas that can assist, if and when needed. In the Waterside Royal British Legion there was a good turnout from the veteran community who were able to engage with over twenty support organisations and charities and also listen to informative presentations on the role and remit of the Veterans’ Support Office; the work of Inspire Wellbeing, one of the mental health charities that supports veterans across the island of Ireland, and the Victims’ Payment Scheme.
During the course of the event, the Veterans Commissioner, Mr Danny Kinahan, made the following remarks;
“One of the main issues that I’ve heard from veterans as I’ve travelled throughout Northern Ireland is that many veterans don’t know where to go for help or don’t know what support is out there for them. It is therefore hoped that these Roadshows will go some way to help address this problem.
“When our country faced civil war at the hands of terrorism, it was you the veterans who answered the call to stand up and protect those who could not protect themselves. Sadly some made the ultimate sacrifice while many still carry the scars, both mentally and physically. That is why it is so important that veterans know where they can get help when they need it.
“In order to assist in the important area of health my office launched a veterans’ health questionnaire in November and this is due to close at the end of this month. The objective of this questionnaire is to obtain accurate and detailed information on veterans’ healthcare needs across Northern Ireland. This will then allow me, as your voice, to champion the veterans’ health needs with Government Ministers and officials in the Department of Health and others.
“As your voice I will continue to use my position to press and influence our political representatives, whether at Westminster or here locally, the statutory agencies and others to ensure they fulfil their responsibilities, and I will do my utmost to be a strong voice and tireless advocate on behalf of all veterans who have given so much in service to their country”.
If you are a veteran who is seeking guidance, advice or support please get in touch. There are a multitude of services available to veterans living in Northern Ireland.
Email: Commissioner@nivco.co.uk or Tel: 028 2548 3169
For details where you can find NI Veteran & Family Support and contact details click here.