To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what mental health support is available for those undertaking an appeal against Veterans UK decision regarding an application to (a) AFCS and (b) War Pensions.

Veterans UK offers support through both the Veterans Welfare Service and the caseworker staff who process applications to both Schemes. Welfare Managers are given specific training in how to correspond verbally and in writing with veterans suffering from mental health conditions. All welfare cases have a holistic assessment of the support or assistance required; where a veteran requires more specific clinical support the Welfare Manager would be able to advise on the appropriate mental health provision available in each devolved region of the UK. Veterans UK caseworker training includes both the theory and practical experience of current and past cases, including those concerning veterans claiming mental health issues. Staff are issued with desk aids and guidance to which they can refer and receive training awareness sessions conducted by a Medical Adviser who specialises in mental health issues.