This Remembrance Sunday, GP practices across Wales honour veterans with compassionate care

Published 05/11/2025

As we pause to remember the sacrifices of our Armed Forces this Remembrance Sunday, GP practices across Wales are taking meaningful action by becoming Veteran Friendly Accredited Practices.

This accreditation, led by the Revalidation Support Unit (RSU) in HEIW and supported by the Welsh Government, recognises surgeries that go the extra mile to understand and care for veterans and their families.

Already, 60 practices across Wales have joined the initiative, and veterans can find their nearest accredited surgery using our interactive map.

Why It Matters

Veterans often face health challenges that are deeply connected to their time in service, whether physical injuries, mental health struggles, or simply the need to be understood by someone who recognises their journey.

Dr Chris Price, Head of RSU, HEIW said “Veterans often face unique health challenges linked to their time in service, and our goal is to ensure they receive the recognition and care they deserve. Becoming a Veteran Friendly Practice is a clear demonstration of your surgery’s support for the Armed Forces community.”

What Accreditation Involves

To become accredited, a named clinician completes the Veterans’ Health and Wellbeing module, which includes:

• Reviewing the Armed Forces Covenant Duty Statutory Guidance
• Ensuring staff routinely ask new patients whether they are veterans or family members of currently serving personnel and recording this in the clinical system
• Committing to ongoing learning and staying updated with guidance from the Welsh Government relating to veterans’ health

The final step is a declaration confirming these standards are part of everyday practice.

Real Impact for Real People

Veterans who visit accredited practices often say they feel more seen, more heard, and more understood. That simple shift - being asked about their service, being treated with empathy, can make a world of difference.

This initiative also supports Wales’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, and aligns with national goals around equity, inclusion, and personalised care.

How Your Practice Can Get Involved

This Remembrance Sunday, your practice can take a meaningful step to support those who’ve served. Accreditation is straightforward, and the impact is lasting.

Visit Veteran Friendly GP Practice Accreditation in Wales – HEIW or contact heiw.cpdadmin@wales.nhs.uk to get started.