Veterans' Op Courage Service
The Op Courage Service is a free NHS mental health service available to anyone due to leave the military, armed forces veterans, reservists and their families.
As a UK military veteran or family of a veteran facing mental health crisis, you can refer yourself to the Op Courage Service as long as:
- You live in England
- You or a family member served in the UK armed forces for at least a full day
- Are able to provide a military service number
It does not matter how long you served for or how long ago you you left the armed forces.
If you live in the South-East of England, you can Call Op Courage on 0300 365 2000 (option 4) or email gateway@berkshire.nhs.uk.
You can also be referred to the Op Courage Service and other veteran mental health services by your GP, healthcare provider or a charity.
You can visit Op Courage South East for more details.
How does the Op Courage Service work?
Op Courage offers a range of guidance to support the mental health of veterans or family members, from mild mental health concerns to more complex cases. We can also help if you are dealing with some issues that may not be related to a specific mental health illness but cause stress such as:
- Difficulty finding a job
- Housing issues
- Social isolation
- Money problems
- Relationship conflict
- Alcohol, drug or gambling issues
Is Op COURAGE the same as TILS, CTS and HIS?
Op Courage is the new name for the veteran mental health services formally known as:
- the Veterans' Mental Health Transition, Intervention and Liaison Service (TILS)
- the Veterans' Mental Health Complex Treatment Service (CTS)
- the Veterans' Mental Health High Intensity Service (HIS)
These services have now been come together as Op Courage to make it easier for veterans and their families to receive the mental health support they need.