Increasing mental health provision for Veterans in Scotland - DMWS
DMWS are very pleased to confirm that we are a partner is the newly announced. Scottish Government Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Pathway – called National Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Pathway.
It is a fantastic development and continues our support of veterans with mental health issues and collaborative working. The support is led by Combat Stress and Help for Heroes Hidden Wounds Service will also provide support.
It will provide a coordinated, Scotland-wide route for veterans to access mental health and wellbeing support, including a clear point of entry, triage, peer support, clinical assessment and supported referrals into the most appropriate local, statutory or third-sector provision.
Military veterans will be able to access timely and consistent help for their mental health and wellbeing regardless of their location in Scotland, following the roll-out of a national package of wrap-around support.
Working in partnership with local health boards and veteran mental health charities, the National Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Pathway will give armed forces veterans the chance to access a range of services, including psychological therapies, health care and peer support tailored to their individual need.
The services provided through the Pathway seek to address gaps in mental health support identified by veterans and will complement existing services already provided by NHS Boards – such as acute mental health care.
Mental Wellbeing Minister Maree Todd said: “Military service is unique and can shape veterans’ needs and circumstances in ways that differ from those of the wider population.
“While many veterans transition successfully into civilian life, some will face mental health challenges that require a tailored and specialist response.
“The National Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Pathway is a significant improvement on the current provision – establishing clear levels of support”
“It will ensure that veterans can enter the system with ease, and are guided to the services most appropriate to their needs regardless of where they live.
“It’s roll out supports this Government’s commitment to honouring the service of our veterans by creating a mental health system that is compassionate, accessible, and effective for all.”
DMWS CEO Abby Dryden stated “We are proud to be part of the Scottish Government’s Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Pathway, helping to ensure that veterans across Scotland can access the right support at the right time. Through our trauma-informed, person-centred approach and strong partnerships with Combat Stress, Help for Heroes, the Scottish Government, NHS Boards and statutory and third sector organisations, DMWS is committed to improving wellbeing, reducing barriers to support, and helping veterans navigate their journey towards better mental health and a fulfilled civilian life”
Background
The launch of the Pathway follows publication of the Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Framework in March 2026, which set out the vision, values and principles for high-quality veterans’ mental health support Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Pathway: national framework – gov.scot
The National Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Pathway will be delivered by veteran mental health charity, Combat Stress, as well as the Help for Heroes Hidden Wounds Service (HWS) and Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS). It will work alongside other programmes supporting veterans’ health and wellbeing, such as the Veterans In Service Injury Network (VISIN) and the Armed Forces and Veterans GP Recognition Scheme.
Need support?
Sometimes things can get on top of you, and it feels like nobody can help. In the military you’re trained to push on, but you don’t need to struggle alone.
If you have worries about health, money and cost of living worries, housing, family, substance misuse, or just need someone to talk to, call DMWS’s helpline for free on 0800 999 3697.
Our support is available for tri-service serving personnel, reservists, veterans, and family members/carers.
Published: 8th October, 2026