THERE were celebrations at Launceston Community Hospital as a plaque to mark its accreditation as ‘Veteran Aware’ was unveiled.

In June it was announced that the Trust had been re-accredited as Veteran Aware by the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA).

It has been achieved by implementing a range of initiatives to improve the experience of patients from the Armed Forces community.

Veteran Aware status means that those from the Armed Forces community have access to healthcare. The aim is to raise standards, improve access to support for veterans and supports both NHS and independent healthcare providers to uphold the Armed Forces Covenant. This is now enshrined in law through the Armed Forces Act (2021).

At Launceston Community Hospital on Thursday, a plaque at the entrance of the MIU was unveiled by Sharon Wilton (progress co-ordinator) and Victoria DeCourcy Harrison (healthcare assistant).

Sharon, who served as a soldier in Basra, said: “I think it’s a good thing for us to be able to be veteran aware. We get quite a lot of elderly patients, and they are the ones that also need support.

“Having served myself, I have seen how much support soldiers do get. I found it very easy to sort of relate to how difficult it is when you leave. We are able to signpost people through the referral process and, and get them support when they leave hospital. I don't think they realise sometimes how much we're able to do for them.”

Victoria, whose partner served his country as well, says: “When we open up about how much there is they are quite surprised. I'm speaking to a few veterans myself as well and they do not realise the number of links that we're able to provide.”

Sarah Washer is matron for Launceston Community Hospital and Stratton Community Hospital.

She says: “Those in the Launceston area who have served in the forces or have a connection to the forces are able to come here as a hub for support, advice, or signposting.

“I am really proud that we are part of Veteran Aware. It’s really important that we not only support those coming into the hospital for support but our staff too.

“I would encourage everyone to have a look within what CFT can provide. Not just from the Veteran Aware, but other networks we offer.”

Professor Tim Briggs CBE, chair of the VCHA, said: “Veteran Aware accreditation continues to demonstrate its value across the NHS and beyond. Helping to ensure that members of the Armed Forces community and their families receive the recognition, understanding, and support they deserve.

“This achievement reflects the unwavering commitment of the VCHA team and the NHS trusts who are dedicated to delivering equitable, high-quality care for those who serve or have served our country. Congratulations to all involved.”

Launceston joins Helston Community Hospital and Camborne Redruth Community Hospital as a Veteran Aware site. Stratton Community Hospital will receive its plaque later this year. Newquay Community Hospital and Falmouth Community Hospital also set to follow suit soon.