Veterans given voice with helpline

A helpline to give troops suffering from mental health problems round-the-clock support has been launched.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamsonhasannouncedan extra £20 million in funding to pay for the hotline and other new support services over the next decade.

The move follows calls by campaigners, including Lord Dannatt – a former head of the British Army – for more help for struggling soldiers.

Mr Williamson said the troops should be supported in their time of need. He said he would be personally be working to make sure they knew where to turn. “Every hour of every day our safety, security and way of life are protected by our courageous armed forces personnel,” he said.

“They are always there for us, often risking life and limb and making huge personal sacrifices, and we must be there for them in their own time of need.

“Mental illnesses caused by life on the battlefield can have a devastating impact on our brave heroes and their families. It is our moral and professional duty to ensure that we do all we can for our world-class troops.” The helpline will be funded by the Ministry of Defence.