Wrexham MP encourages GP practices to become veteran-friendly

Wrexham’s Member of Parliament is encouraging all GP practices in her constituency to sign-up to become veteran-friendly.

GP practices in Wales can become accredited veteran-friendly practices and provide specialist care for current and former military personnel through a programme introduced by Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW).

This programme enables GP practices to voluntarily undertake specialist training on veterans’ health and wellbeing, promoting fair treatment and respect for people who have served in the Armed Forces and their families.

GP surgeries joining the scheme will routinely ask new patients if they or their family members have served, or are currently serving, in the British Armed Forces. Practices will need to stay up to date with the latest training and guidance on veterans’ health to support their patients most effectively.

Sarah Atherton, MP for Wrexham, has now written to all general practices in her constituency to encourage them to sign-up and become veteran-friendly.

Ms Atherton has been informed that the sign-up process is quick and once GPs are registered, they will be able to use the HEIW-accredited kite mark.

Sarah Atherton MP commented: “As a veteran, I know that visiting a GP practice to discuss service-related health issues can be daunting, causing many to postpone much-needed appointments.

“Becoming a veteran-friendly practice enables the GP and the wider team to promote fair treatment and respect for people who have served. In addition, it can build and cement trust between the patient and their GP, making a real difference to them and their families.

As we know, Wrexham has a rich military heritage and as such, we have a large veterans community.

“I know that this would make a real difference to many people’s lives and I hope that GP surgeries in Wrexham take up this opportunity.”

To register to become a Veteran Friendly Accredited Practice, GP practices should email [email protected].