New Women-Only Mental Health Service Launches for Military Veterans
Clinical nurse specialist Vicki Bailey pioneered the new service after identifying gaps in women veterans’ mental health support.
Addressing a Critical Need in Veterans’ Mental Health
The Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) has launched a groundbreaking women-only mental health service specifically designed for military veterans. This innovative program fills a crucial gap in care by providing specialized support tailored to female veterans’ unique needs.
Key Features of the New Service
- Peer support groups creating safe spaces for shared experiences
- Specialized care for PTSD, anxiety, and other service-related mental health conditions
- Confidential discussions about sexual assault and harassment in military settings
- Monthly online meetings for accessibility and convenience
The Inspiration Behind the Service
Vicki Bailey, a clinical nurse specialist with NSFT’s Veterans Integrated Service, developed the program after her research at Anglia Ruskin University revealed significant barriers women face when seeking mental health support.
“There wasn’t any research around the barriers female veterans face when accessing mental health services,” Bailey explained. “That ignited a passion to offer something bespoke.”
Veteran Perspectives on the Need for Specialized Care
RAF veteran Mandy Small emphasizes the importance of women-only support spaces.
Mandy Small, an RAF veteran from Rendlesham who served as a military dog handler, shared her perspective:
- Survived injuries from a mortar blast in Iraq
- Experienced mental health challenges post-service
- Highlights the importance of gender-specific support
“It’s important for everyone to have a safe space where they feel comfortable enough to open up,” Small stated. “Women-only groups are crucial because many don’t feel confident discussing certain experiences in mixed groups.”
Service Availability and Expansion Plans
The NSFT program currently serves 25 participants with plans to expand this autumn to include:
- Additional clinical support options
- Broader regional availability across Eastern England
- More specialized resources for complex mental health needs
Veterans across Norfolk, Suffolk, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Essex, and Hertfordshire can register through the NSFT website.
Additional Support Resources
For those seeking immediate help, the BBC Action Line provides comprehensive listings of mental health support services.
Follow ongoing coverage of veteran support initiatives through BBC Norfolk’s social channels and broadcasts.
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