No veteran should feel alone at Christmas.

After risking life and limb during their time in the military, no veteran should feel alone at Christmas. But thousands of veterans around the UK will feel lonely and isolated this festive season. No cards, no presents, no celebrations.

For veterans battling mental and physical injuries from their time in service, the isolation felt at Christmas can feel like another battle. 

83,000 veterans will spend Christmas alone and isolated.* 

Transitioning from the comradery of the military to life as a civilian can be stressful and isolating, impacting a veteran’s mental health. This feeling of isolation can be particularly devastating at Christmas, a time of year where there is extra pressure to be joyful. 

Last December, we saw a 77% increase in the number of requests for support than in the previous year.

Veterans need robust mental health support at Christmas time and beyond. By joining our mission for better support for veterans and their families, you can support Help for Heroes' tireless work to achieve:

  • Providing direct, specialised support to veterans.
  • Improving support by working with veterans and health services.
  • Calling on the government for better support for veterans.
  • Building a society where veterans are supported to make a success of life after service.

We can't do any of this without the community of people who believe in getting the best for our veterans. That includes you.

If you agree all veterans should get the best possible mental health support at Christmas time and beyond, add your name and join the campaign.

Looking for support?

If you are a member of the Armed Forces community and in need of support, we are here for you. Please reach out.

*4% of veterans in Great Britain described themselves as always feeling lonely according to an online survey carried out by YouGov Plc between 20th - 22nd July 2022.  Total sample size 455 adults. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults who previously served in the military (aged 18+).  This represents 83,000 from a population of 2.03m veterans in Great Britain.

  • Rhiannon R 27.02.2024 12:36