Thousands of forces veterans are to receive more help dealing with mental health problems after a £9m NHS investment.

NHS England has launched the new service, which has been specially tailored to support and treat ex-armed forces veterans and service personnel who are approaching discharge.

The newly commissioned NHS transition, intervention and liaison - TIL - veterans’ mental health service, will act as a front door to a range of mental health services for 17,500 people over the next three years.

Different levels of specialist treatment, support and healthcare experts will be available, ensuring those who put their lives on the line for their country get the care they deserve, as quickly as possible, all the time.

Service personnel approaching discharge and veterans can either self-refer, or request referral via their GP or mental health provider, or through a military charity like Combat Stress, the Royal British Legion, Help for Heroes and SSAFA. An initial face to face assessment will be offered within a fortnight and where appropriate, a clinical appointment two weeks later.

To get in contact with the service in Devon, call 0300 365 0300 or email [email protected]

It is intended the service will help tackle some of the most common mental health issues such as alcoholism, anxiety and depression and join up services across the board, working with local authorities and charities, so that the whole of a person’s needs and their families, are looked after. This might also include help and support on practical issues such as housing after discharge, as well as quick access to social care where necessary and an out of hours contact in the event of an emergency.

Dr Jonathan Leach of NHS England said: "While both as a military doctor and then as an NHS GP I have seen patients who require quick access to care and the new service will allow that.

"I am hoping that the new system will make a big difference to the health and wellbeing of veterans and also have a positive impact upon their families and those around them.”

Surgeon Commodore Paul Hughes, commander of defence primary healthcare for the Ministry of Defence said: “I am delighted to see the launch of this service which is a result of the MOD working in close partnership with NHS England. It will provide seamless mental health care for service personnel in the last months of service and beyond as they transition into civilian life. This will make a real difference by ensuring that our personnel continue to receive the level of care that they both need and deserve.”