Support for colleagues and veterans during current conflicts
News on world events can impact us in a number of ways. The recent military activity in the Gulf and Cyprus means many people may be experiencing heightened stress, anxiety or emotional strain – particularly our veterans and reservists, those connected with our armed services or with the regions that are impacted.
Our Healthy Working Lives and Armed Forces Employee Network wants to remind everyone of the support available both within our organisation and through trusted external services. Please know that you are not alone and support is always available.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Our EAP provided by VIVUP provides free, confidential support 24/7 by telephoning 0330 380 0658. The service is here for you at any time if you want to talk to a trained counsellor, seek advice or access wellbeing resources.
Listening Ears
We have a network of trained Mental Health First Aiders who can offer a listening ear and help signpost support. You can reach out to them directly if you need someone to talk to about anything that’s on your mind. Just search “Listening Ear” on the intranet to find their contact details.
Armed Forces Employee Network
If you’d like to talk to a member of the network, please email armedforcesemployeenetwork@eastlothian.gov.uk and a colleague will be in touch.
External support for veterans
If you need advice, someone to talk to or information about support resources, several specialist organisations are available:
- Combat Stress offers mental health support for UK veterans, including help with PTSD, anxiety and depression
- SSAFA (the Armed Forces Charity) provides lifelong support to veterans and their families, including practical and emotional assistance
- Help for Heroes offers wellbeing services, recovery support, and community connections for veterans and their families
For advice on travel/impact on family members in the region
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)
For the latest travel advice or assistance for UK nationals overseas, visit the FCDO website:
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/foreign-commonwealth-development-office
CDO Travel Advice Hotline
For urgent queries about UK nationals overseas: 020 7008 5000.
Red Cross International Family Tracing Service
Support for people unable to contact family in crisis-affected regions: https://www.redcross.org.uk
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out whether through our internal services or the organisations listed above.