Veterans are former members of HM Armed Forces (RN/RM, Army, RAF, regular
or reserve). The term applies to all UK ex-servicemen and women. There
are an estimated 5.5 million in the country and with their wives, husbands,
partners and children they comprise the 10.5 million strong Veterans Community.
Are veterans all elderly?
Certainly not! This is a common misconception, but veterans can be any
age from 18 – 100 plus. As soon as anyone leaves the Armed Forces they
become a veteran. Hundred of thousands are in their 20s, 30s and 40s.
Are National Servicemen veterans?
Yes. The youngest is now 62 plus. There are an estimated 2.2 million in
the UK.
Who else can be called a veteran? Veteran status also applies to a number
of special groups such as those who once served in the Polish detachments
under British command in WWii and Merchant Mariners who saw duty in military
operations.
Do you need to have seen action to be a veteran?
No. Veterans need not have served overseas or in conflict, only as part
of the ‘trained strength’ of the Armed Forces.
How does Veterans Agency support veterans?
The Agency administers payments to veterans injured or disabled through
service in the Armed Forces and to widows, widowers and civil partners
of those killed in Service. In addition the national (free) Veterans Helpline
and website provide sound advice on many topics. Enquiries may also be
redirected to a range of organisations that work in partnership with the
Agency to support the Veterans Community. The Helpline has up-to-date information
on central/local government and 500 plus exservice organisations and other
voluntary groups.
