Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, what steps the Government is taking to reduce the number of armed forces veterans in prison.

NHS England Liaison and Diversion services are able to assess vulnerable individuals, including former service personnel at first point of contact with the Criminal Justice System, for example at police stations and courts across England. Individuals may be diverted away from the Criminal Justice System, or into appropriate community orders.

Project Nova in partnership with NHS Liaison & Diversion services across four regions, are able to offer former service personnel support to address the underlying issues that lead to re-offending.

The Ministry of Justice understands the unique nature of those who served in the Armed Forces and those prisoners who declare a military background are able to access a range of specialist support, including from military charities who deliver services in prisons and in the community.