Supporting the Armed Forces community at NCH&C

NCH&C proudly supports members of the Armed Forces community - including veterans, cadets, reservists, spouses, and family members - with tailored pathways into NHS employment.

We work closely with Step into Health, the Career Transition Partnership (CTP), and Forces Family Charity to offer personalised support.

Employment support

If you're a Service Leaver, please register with Step into Health. Your Resettlement team can help, or you can contact us directly via ArmedForcesAware@nchc.nhs.uk.

We are proud to be:

  • Signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant
  • Accredited Veteran Aware
  • Holders of the Silver Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Award

As part of our commitment, we offer guaranteed interviews to Armed Forces community members who meet the essential criteria for our roles.

a logo of a lion holding an umbrella a purple tick with blue text

Understanding your experience

Service in the Armed Forces presents unique challenges. Veterans may need support navigating civilian systems - often a matter of "translation" between military and civilian experience. We also recognise the impact on families, who may face frequent relocations and separation.

Being Veteran Aware means ensuring the Armed Forces community is not disadvantaged compared to other patients. Members of this community may face physical or mental health challenges due to their service. The NHS provides dedicated support through:

  • Op RESTORE - physical health services for veterans
  • Op COURAGE - mental health services for veterans and their families

Armed Forces Community Network at NCH&C

Launched in May 2025, our Armed Forces Community Network brings together staff trained and experienced in supporting the Armed Forces community. We also collaborate with other NHS trusts, charities, and networks.

What does the network do?

  • Provides a focal point, community, and advocacy for Armed Forces staff and patients
  • Supports NCH&C in developing and delivering Armed Forces-related policies and projects

How do we work?

  • We meet online each quarter, with occasional in-person gatherings
  • We engage with external organisations and welcome new members
  • We collaborate with CCS's Veterans Network, with shared access to events and meetings

logo for the armed forcers community network

Become an Armed Forces Champion

When you join NCH&C, you can become an Armed Forces Champion - a key contact for:

  • Advice
  • Signposting
  • Support on Armed Forces-related issues (for staff and patients)

Get in touch

Email: ArmedForcesAware@nchc.nhs.uk

Download the latest version of the "NCHC supporting our Armed Forces Community" leaflet 

NCH&C is a diverse workplace, proud of its bold and unique workforce.

In 2020, we became the first organisation in Norfolk to achieve Disability Confidence Leader status.

Working at NCH&C