Almost 40,000 military personnel medically discharged from British Armed Forces in 20 years

Help for Heroes has revealed that injury and illness has forced almost 40,000 men and women to leave the military over the past 20 years. Thousands of those discharged are falling through gaps in support. Help for Heroes wants to make sure that wounded veterans receive the treatment and access to services they deserve.

The Charity is calling on the Government for an independent review of the existing medical discharge process to ensure those forced to leave the military as a result of injuries or illness are given the best possible opportunity to land on their feet and transition well into civilian life.

Mel Waters, CEO of Help for Heroes said: “Injuries have ended 40,000 military careers in 20 years and every day this number grows. Many of them tell us that their transition impacted significantly on their health, wellbeing and family.

“The medical discharge process is seriously failing those who are let down by major inconsistencies in support, so we’re calling on the Government to commission an independent review of the process to close those gaps. With the public’s support, we’re on a mission to ensure every wounded hero has the best opportunity to stand strong in civilian life”

To find out more or to join the mission to help all wounded veterans stand strong visit 40ThousandStrong.com