Support for Veterans and Their Families in Cumberland
Members of the Armed Forces community can face unique challenges during and after service, including managing mental health, coping with the rising cost of living, and adjusting back to regular life. Whether you are a veteran, currently serving, or a family member, there is support available both locally in Cumberland and through national organisations.
Looking After Your Mental Health
Experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma or other mental health difficulties can affect anyone. Op COURAGE, the NHS Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Service, provides support for former service personnel across England. Veterans can self-refer or be referred by a healthcare professional, and support is available for a wide range of mental health concerns.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need urgent support:
- NHS 111 (option 2 for mental health support)
- Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day)
- Combat Stress 24-hour Helpline: 0800 138 1619 and text 07537 404719
Seeking help early can make a real difference, and you do not need to be in crisis before accessing support.
Help with the Cost of Living
Many veterans and their families are feeling the pressure of rising household costs. Support is available for issues such as housing, benefits, employment, debt and financial hardship through dedicated Armed Forces charities and local services.
The Royal British Legion, SSAFA, and other veteran support organisations can help people access grants, welfare assistance and advice tailored to the Armed Forces community.
Support may include:
- Emergency welfare grants
- Energy and household cost support
- Benefits advice
- Housing support
- Employment and training guidance
- Debt and financial wellbeing advice
National Veteran Support Charities
A number of national organisations offer specialist support:
- Royal British Legion: Welfare advice, financial assistance and community support. Helpline: 0808 802 8080.
- SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity: Practical, emotional and financial support for serving personnel, veterans and their families. Forcesline Helpline: 0800 260 6780.
- Help for Heroes: Support with physical and mental wellbeing, recovery and rehabilitation. Helpline: 0300 303 9888.
- Combat Stress: Specialist treatment and support for veterans living with mental health conditions. Helpline: 0800 138 1619.
Local Support in Cumberland and Cumbria
There are also a number of organisations closer to home that can offer support, friendship and guidance.
- Veterans Connect North works with veterans and their families to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and build supportive social connections through peer support, activities and access to local services. Contact: 07702 596226.
- The Workington Veterans Hub provides a welcoming space where veterans can connect with others who share similar experiences, access advice and find information about available support.
- Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Clubs Cumbria host informal meet-ups across the county, helping veterans stay connected, make friends and support one another.
- SSAFA Cumbria provides support with welfare issues, financial difficulties and accessing services. Telephone: 020 4566 9146 or Email: [email protected]
- The Royal British Legion in Cumbria also offers local welfare and community support for veterans and their families.
If you are a veteran, serving member of the Armed Forces, reservist, or family member and are struggling with your health, wellbeing, finances or housing, support is available.
Healthwatch Cumberland encourages anyone in the Armed Forces community who needs support to seek help early and make use of the services available. You do not have to face challenges alone.