Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Veterans: Welfare Service

Monday 2 November 2020 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Ministerial discussions focus on providing an effective welfare service for veterans through the MOD's Veterans Welfare Service.
  • The Minister acknowledged the need to remove negative stigma around mental health issues for veterans.
  • Campaigning efforts to address mental health stigma for veterans are recognized and supported.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Stuart Anderson Con South Shropshire
NHS Veterans
Context

There have been concerns about the effectiveness of veteran support services. This question seeks to understand recent discussions on improving these services.

Question

What recent discussions has he had with Cabinet colleagues on providing an effective welfare service for veterans?

Answer from Johnny Mercer

The MOD's Veterans Welfare Service provides advice and information on areas such as health, statutory benefits and pensions to all ex-service personnel and their families. Other areas of veterans' welfare, such as health and benefits, are the responsibility of the respective Departments, and my officials work closely with them to ensure a joined-up approach.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific ask about recent discussions was not addressed in detail; only general information on service responsibilities is provided.

How: Provides General Information, Does Not Specify Recent Discussions

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Q2 Stuart Anderson Con South Shropshire
Mental Health Veterans
Context

There is a growing concern about the negative stigma associated with mental health issues among veterans, affecting their willingness to seek help.

Question

What steps is the Minister taking to remove negative stigma around mental health issues for veterans?

Answer from Johnny Mercer

I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for his tireless campaigning on these issues. It is true to say that we are light years away from where we were, but there is still more work to do. The vast majority of people and families of those who have taken their own lives have not spoken out and have not reached out for help, and that remains the biggest challenge in fighting the issue of veterans' suicide. We have made great progress and I pay tribute to all those who have come with us on that journey, but it is clear that we have more to do and I am determined to lead that fight.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific ask about steps taken was not directly addressed; instead, general progress and challenges are noted.

How: Acknowledges Ongoing Work, Not Specifics On Actions

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