Armed forces and defence community

We proudly support the Armed Forces community. This includes veterans, cadets, reservists, spouses and family members.

At our Trust, we have tailored pathways into the NHS. We work with Step into Health, Career Transition Partnership (CTP) and Forces Family Charity.

Employment support

As part of our commitment, we offer guaranteed interviews to Armed Forces community members who meet the essential criteria for our roles.

We are proud to be:

Armed Forced Covenant signatories
Veteran Aware accredited
Gold Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Award

If you have questions, you can contact your resettlement team or email us at ArmedForcesAware@nchc.nhs.uk

Step Into Health

Step into Health provides a dedicated pathway for the UK Armed Forces community to access the numerous career opportunities available in the NHS.

It is open to all service leavers, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers, veterans and partners or children of regular serving members of the UK Armed Forces.

We recommend you register for Step Into Health.

Understanding your experience

Service in the Armed Forces has unique challenges.

Veterans may need support navigating civilian systems. For example, you may need help "translating" between the military and civilian experience. Frequent relocations and separation can impact families.

We are Veteran Aware. This means we make sure the Armed Forces community is not disadvantaged compared to other patients or employees. We understand the physical or mental health challenges from service in the Armed Forces.

The NHS provides dedicated support through:

Op RESTORE - physical health services for veterans

Op COURAGE - mental health services for veterans and their families

Op NOVA - legal support for veterans

Armed forces and defence community

Employment support

Step Into Health

Understanding your experience

Veteran Aware

Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award 2025

Step into health

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