Kevan Jones, Member of Parliament for North Durham, has welcomed the launch of the new Veterans’ Wellbeing Assessment and Liaison Service (WVALS).
WVALS is a partnership between the Northumberland, Tyne & Wear and Tees, Esk & Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trusts, Combat Stress and the Royal British Legion, and will offer a single point of access to mental health services. This will ensure much easier and quicker access to existing services across the region.
Mr. Jones said, “This new service will provide much needed support to ex-service personnel who need access to mental health services. It is not always made clear to them what support is available and where they should turn in their time of need. WVALS will enable veterans and their families to access the most appropriate help available, and will stay with them throughout the course of any treatment.”
WVALS will initially run as a pilot for 12 months, and more information can be found at www.northeast.nhs.uk/VWALS. Anyone wishing to access the service should call 0191 441 5974 or email [email protected].