Stockport NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating Armed Forces Week with the news it has recently been recognised for its support for forces veterans – in addition to the support it gives to reservists working in its services, and the armed forces personnel working them.

The trust, which runs Stepping Hill Hospital and community services in Stockport, has been re-accredited with ‘Veteran Aware’ status, awarded by the Veterans Covenant Hospital Alliance. 

Trusts which receive the status need to demonstrate they can respond to the needs of veterans and their families, keeping staff and colleagues informed of their status, and signposting veterans and families to other services which can offer support. A ‘Veterans Passport’ has also been introduced which enable a veteran to disclose information that they may wish to share with healthcare professionals in a way that is comfortable to them, therefore reducing the need to recall any information, which may involve retelling and re-living traumatic memories.

The trust also shows support for their reservists in their services. It provides extra paid days leave for reservists and has supportive HR policies in place for veterans, Reserves, and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, as well as the spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.

In addition it offers placements for Armed Forces personnel to gain NHS experience. Abby Hinselwood, who serves as a military nurse, is currently on a placement working within the hospital’s Acute Medical Unit department.

Abby has served in the Royal Army medical services (RAMS) for six years and has been a qualified nurse for the past two and half years. While her primary role is with the military, she had the invaluable opportunity to maintain and build clinical skills by working shifts at the hospital.

Abby said “Stepping Hill has shown incredible support in allowing me to undertake clinical work within the hospital. This not only helps me stay current with NHS practices and patient care, but also strengthens the connection between the military and civilian healthcare systems. I’m incredibly grateful to the hospital and my colleagues for welcoming me into the team and for recognising the value of supporting Armed Forces personnel.

Their support is a shining example of how civilian organisations can positively impact those who serve—ensuring we’re always ready to deliver care.”