The Centre for Veterans’ Health at King Edward VII’s Hospital

King Edward VII’s Hospital is special due to its charitable status. It was founded in 1899 with the express purpose of treating those injured in the Second Boer War. That care for servicemen and women and for veterans continues to this day.

As a charity King Edward VII’s Hospital is reliant on the generosity of supporters.

Who are we?

Founded in 1899 by Sisters Agnes and Fanny Keyser during the Second Boer War, King Edward VII’s Hospital opened its doors to injured servicemen, marking the genesis of our commitment to those who serve. Today, the Centre for Veterans’ Health continues this legacy, offering a comprehensive range of support services tailored specifically for veterans and their loved ones.

Whether serving, retired, or a family member, everyone within the Armed Forces community can rely on us for the support they need. Our services are not restricted by rank or length of service; rather, they are extended to all who have served, including reserves, and their spouses, civil partners, or widows.

What we offer?

Central to our ethos is the belief that supporting the Armed Forces is not just a duty, but a privilege. Our hand-picked team of consultants commit to providing one pro-bono procedure for a veteran each year, exemplifying our dedication to giving back. Moreover, we offer military grants for healthcare, ensuring that financial constraints never hinder access to essential services.

A shining example of our commitment is our pioneering Pain Management Programme. Delivered by a multidisciplinary team of expert clinicians, this programme equips veterans with practical strategies to manage pain and enhance their quality of life. By empowering individuals to take control of their pain, we aim not only to alleviate suffering but also to foster resilience and well-being.

While our history is steeped in service, we are constantly looking ahead. Since 2015, we have supported over 500 veterans, but our ambition knows no bounds. By the end of 2023, we aim to extend our reach to 1000 veterans, forging new partnerships and developing innovative services along the way. Our goal is simple: to ensure that every individual who has served can always rely on us for unwavering support.

Hear what our service users have to say:

“I can honestly say, hand on heart, the programme was the thing that changed my life, and the way I was living it” – Caroline Beazley.

“The Pain Management Programme (PMP) represents not just a new approach but a lifeline” – Hugh Northam.

“I met the most fabulous team of healthcare professionals at the Veteran’s Pain Management Programme, King Edward VII Hospital, London. The multidisciplinary, holistic approach provided me with the knowledge and skills to help myself” – Nicola Williams.

“No longer does the pain control my life but now my life controls the pain” – Phil Caswell.

The Centre for Veterans’ Health currently has three core pillars of activity:

• The Pain Management Programme (PMP): our free, award-winning programme has also been recognised by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) as an outstanding practice. It exists to help veterans manage acute and chronic pain, helping them get back to living their lives to the fullest. Find out more here
• Military Grants for free surgical care: The Centre for Veterans’ Health means-tested grants programme provides 100% grants to uninsured Service or ex-Service Personnel, (including reserves). This enables them to access the Hospital completely free of charge. Find out more here
• 20% Discount off Hospital fees: All Service or ex-Service Personnel (including reserves), without medical insurance are entitled to a 20% discount on their hospital bill. This is regardless of rank or length of service. It also extends to their spouses/civil partners and includes widowers and widows. Find out more here

Are you a veteran in need of support?

If you are a veteran in need of support, or have any queries about the assistance we can offer you, please contact Caroline Dunne, Centre for Veterans Health Coordinator: cdunne@kingedwardvii.co.uk