Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he is taking steps to ensure the consistent implementation of adequate risk management processes for vulnerable service personnel.

Across the Armed Forces, there are extensive medical and welfare systems that offer support for those in need, provided by the Chain of Command, medical staff, welfare and pastoral staff. The Ministry of Defence also works closely with the National Health Service, the Defence Medical Services, Service charities, third parties and the single Services to provide 24-hour mental health services accessible for all Armed Forces personnel. This includes a 24-hour mental health helpline, funded by Defence, and delivered by Combat Stress.

Each Service also has dedicated suicide and self-harm policies and risk management procedures tailored to their specific nature, all of which are regularly reviewed and updated. This includes Vulnerability Risk Management training.

The Armed Forces Suicide Prevention Strategy and Action Plan, published in April 2023, also seeks to enhance organisational processes to support those at risk.