We’re proud to be working together across Cheshire and Merseyside to support the national Armed Forces healthcare training and education programme, delivered by the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA).
This training is designed to help all NHS colleagues better understand the experiences, pressures and challenges faced by members of the Armed Forces community - including those who serve or have served, as well as their families. It supports us to recognise where people may need a little extra understanding and to make sure care, support and opportunities are fair and inclusive.
By coming together as a regional collaborative, local NHS Trusts are helping to ensure every organisation is Armed Forces aware and confident in how we identify and support Armed Forces colleagues and patients.
A range of flexible training options is available, from a short 5 minute introduction to more in depth 30 minute sessions, making it easy for staff to take part in a way that fits around their role.
For more information, visit: https://armedforceshealthtraining.nhs.uk/
Overview of modules
Module one: NHS Introduction to the Armed Forces community
Module one is an introductory video, that can be watched at any time. Follow up, online sessions cover modules two and three.
Format: 5-minute video
Summary: Provides a concise overview of the Armed Forces community and NHS responsibilities under the Covenant. Ideal for staff induction.
Key highlights:
- Who the Armed Forces community are and why it matters
- Importance of accurate identification and recording
- Overview of NHS support pathways (e.g. Op COURAGE, Op RESTORE, Op NOVA, Personalised Care).
- How staff can embed Armed Forces community-aware care in practice.
Module two: NHS Leadership Overview: NHS care for the Armed Forces community
Format: 10-minute presentation with the offer of a 20-minute facilitated discussion
Summary: Designed for Chief Executives and senior leaders to understand strategic responsibilities and system-wide impact.
Key highlights:
- Legal Foundations – Covenant, Legal Duty, and ‘Due Regard’
- Training Offer – Flexible modules led by Regional Trainers
- Identifying Status – Recording and integrating into care planning
- Ops Suite Services – Referral pathways for mental and physical health (e.g. Op COURAGE, Op RESTORE, Op NOVA, Personalised Care).
Staff Outcomes – Details how modules equip staff to identify Armed Forces community needs, personalise care, and confidently deliver joined-up support.
To sign up, and view local dates and session times click here.
Module three: NHS Workforce Module: Supporting the Armed Forces community (practical guidance for frontline staff)
Format: 30-minute presentation
Summary: Practical guidance for frontline staff to identify and support Armed Forces community members.
Key highlights:
- Community Definition – Regulars, Reservists, Veterans, Families, Bereaved.
- Access Barriers – Relocation, identity, misunderstood needs.
- Identification & Recording – Ask, record and practice implications.
- Support Pathways – Mainstream, in-house, third sector e.g. Op COURAGE, Op RESTORE, Op NOVA, Personalised Care).
Staff Outcomes – Equips staff to uphold the Covenant through fair, respectful care.
To sign up, and view local dates and session times click here.
