The Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA) celebrates NHS healthcare organisations that put into action the principles of being accredited as Veteran Aware, delivering compassionate, tailored care for the Armed Forces community.
One clear example comes from The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, where staff supported local veteran Steve Lowe, helping him avoid emergency surgery and regain confidence in the healthcare system.
Steve, a former Governor of the trust and Regional Manager for Op NOVA, the specialist service supporting veterans in contact with the justice system, attended the Urgent and Emergency Care Centre with severe stomach pain. For Steve, hospitals can trigger anxiety common among those with service backgrounds, where the system can feel overwhelming.
“Hospitals are very testing places for someone like me. I told the staff I’m ex-military, and people with similar experiences will know that when you report to medical, you’re put through a rigorous system where you were made to feel like you were letting others down,” Steve said.
Recognising his anxiety, the clinical team adapted their approach, listening carefully and slowing the pace of his care. This ensured he felt supported and confident, avoiding the need for emergency surgery and allowing for a planned procedure — a demonstration of care that truly lives up to the spirit of being accredited as Veteran Aware.
“Having never had surgery before and having only ever been in hospital once previously for treatment, I had significant anxiety which I expressed to staff at the pre-op stage, it was recorded on my patient record. They took time to tell me what they were doing, why they were doing it, and exactly what I needed to do. Being provided clear information and instructions allowed me to relax. It gave me the confidence that staff were going to help me. Thanks to the whole Trust team, from pre-op to surgery to care staff, and to the amazing cleaning team that kept everything clean and hygienic throughout,” Steve added.
Maj (Retd) David B Wood, Regional Lead, North of England, Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance, said: “Veteran Aware accreditation means NHS organisations are not just meeting standards on paper — they are embedding understanding, compassion, and practical support into everyday care. Stories like this show the real, positive difference that tailored care can make for members of the Armed Forces community.”
Sally Kilgariff, Chief Operating Officer and executive lead, Veteran Aware group, The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Rotherham is home to a proud community of veterans, service personnel and families. Hearing about Steve’s experience highlights exactly why our Veteran Aware status is so important. We want our local Armed Forces community to know that we understand their unique needs and are dedicated to ensuring they feel safe and heard.”
This story shows the real impact of Veteran Aware accreditation, illustrating how Veteran Aware accredited organisations can live up to the spirit of the programme by putting patients first and delivering care that makes a tangible difference.
