A mental health support service for female veterans founded one year ago could be replicated across the country. The groups, run by the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, have supported 48 women across both counties so far, and organisers say they have been contacted by other trusts interested in starting similar services.
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) said it had developed a new female veterans toolkit offering bespoke guidance and support.
How is the service supporting female veterans?
Clinical nurse specialist Vicki Bailey said the women benefit from spending time together and sharing experiences.
Alongside mental health support, guest speakers also cover issues such as military pensions and the impact of the menopause. Bailey has been working with the MOD to help it develop support for women still serving and those leaving the forces.
She said:
I've had people nationally reach out to find out how we've done it, what we've done and more people are saying 'yes, there is a need'.
Women face specific issues as veterans and I think from a government perspective and a healthcare perspective this is being heard.
I think there's a lot of work that still needs to happen, especially inside the military and for those that are transitioning out of the services.
If you don't know what's out there to support you it's quite scary and daunting.
The MOD said it was investing more in NHS services for veterans.
A spokesperson said:
We owe a debt of gratitude to all those who serve, and since 2024, we have made significant changes to improve mental health support for personnel and veterans – including for the growing number of women in our armed forces.
They said serving personnel can use a 24-hour helpline and get access to mental health professionals.
How has it helped Chelley Tulloch?
Chelley Tulloch, a former RAF medic, has been working with the group in Norfolk and found it beneficial to her mental health.
She experienced PTSD following multiple deployments to war zones around the world, including the Balkans, the Gulf and Afghanistan, where she helped injured soldiers who were being rescued from battles and taken to hospital. Tulloch said she was really desperate at times.
She said:
I just went through a lot of low moods, nightmares, seeing things, hearing things, smelling things, doubting myself, not being able to do things that I could do.
It really does affect the way your brain thinks.
Tulloch said with more women entering the military it is likely more dedicated mental health support will be needed.
She said:
I talk to people in Scotland, I talk to people in Wales, and I'm talking to so many different ladies at the moment about what they're doing.
There's all sorts of different organisations out there now for the female veterans, and we are all pulling together.
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