DH to deliver improved mental health support for armed forces

The Department of Health (DH) has committed to making improvements to the mental health services on offer to members of the UK's armed forces.

In partnership with the Ministry of Defence, the DH is in the process of setting up a 24-hour counselling and support line for servicemen, while 30 mental health nurses are to be introduced to assist veterans suffering from psychological issues.

The changes are being made in response to recommendations made by former Royal Navy physician Dr Andrew Murrison in his government-commissioned study Fighting Fit.

Health minister Simon Burns said the department was also working together with Combat Stress and other service charities for further improve support standards.

"Servicemen and women give so much to our country and the NHS must do whatever it can to reduce the impact that this can have on their mental health," he added.

According to Combat Stress, the number of armed forces personnel seeking the charity's help has risen by 72 percent since 2005.