Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what support the Government is providing to veterans who developed chronic illnesses after serving in the Gulf.

Veterans who served in the Gulf War and are suffering with adverse health conditions, whether physical or mental, should contact their general practitioner (GP) in the first instance to seek appropriate treatment for their symptoms. GPs can refer them for further support as required to meet their clinical needs.

In England, the National Health Service has set up several veteran specific services including Op RESTORE and Op COURAGE. Where injuries and ongoing medical problems are a result of service in the armed forces, GPs should refer individuals directly into the Op RESTORE service. Op RESTORE can also assist in providing wrap-around support while waiting for clinical interventions to take place. Op COURAGE provides a complete mental health care pathway for veterans and can be accessed directly or following a referral by their GP.