Calls for ex-armed forces not to avoid seeking help

Sunday 13 October 2019

"Proudly independent" ex-servicemen, women and their families are being urged not to be reluctant in seeking help for their mental wellbeing.

The call came from former serviceman, policeman and keen musician Keith Sunter, who has been appointed the Royal British Legion's designated Welfare Chairman, after he retired from teaching with the Jersey Music Service.

His appointment comes as the British Legion approaches its 100^th anniversary.

With the launch of this year’s Poppy Appeal, the Legion hope to focus even more on “the continuing duty of care towards ex-servicemen and women”. 

Pictured: Keith Sunter has taken the role of Welfare Chairman. (Royal British Legion Jersey)

In his new role, Keith will oversee various services which the Legion offers to ex-service people including offering free confidential welfare advice, social and emotional care, providing discrete financial support and connection to a network of other welfare agencies and organisations. 

Keith hopes that for the remainder of 2019 and into next year he will be able to encourage more islanders who have served to come forward and take advantage of the Legion’s services.

“I want to hear from any veterans, of any age, who need assistance of any kind. Ex-service people tend to be proudly independent by nature – it comes with the military training – and therefore often reluctant to ask for help. But our door is always open, telephone calls always welcome, emails always responded to," he said.

“All contacts are treated with strict confidence. And if help is not required, we would love to hear from you anyway – it may be a chance to join in with some of our great social activities and, who knows, renew contacts with an old chum or two.”

Despite the organisation reaching its centenary, Keith says “it’s as relevant, energetic and focused as ever", adding: "So, let’s make 2019 a year to remember – and a firm platform from which to push on into the next 100 years."