NHS Borders’ newest welfare officer says he is “determined to continue assisting other veterans”.

The region’s health board – in partnership with the Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) – has appointed Michael Lowrey, 38, into the newly-created role of veteran welfare officer.

A veteran himself, Mr Lowrey, who grew up in the north of England but now lives in Coldstream, says he wants to help people with their lives after the forces.

“When I was medically discharged from the forces in 2007 it was a big change to my way of life and I had difficulty adapting back into a civilian lifestyle,” said Mr Lowrey.

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“This was partially because I didn’t know what services and support were available within my local community.

“Therefore, I am determined to continue assisting other veterans, no matter what age they are, to access the services that they vitally need but may not know they are eligible for.

“I help by acting as a bridge so that the medical professionals can better understand veterans who are patients.

“This can enable more effective treatment which helps these patients to be discharged in a timely manner with the confidence that they are ready to go home because there are extensive support networks in place.”

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According to a press release sent by NHS Borders, Mr Lowrey has been “busy making connections with other veterans groups within the Borders over the past months”.

He has also been inducted as part of the Borders General Hospital in order to “identify veterans and assist them on their road to recovery”.

The new armed forces personnel and veterans champion and director of workforce at NHS Borders, Andy Carter, said: “There is a large veteran community living within the Scottish Borders and the addition of the DMWS welfare officer position has been an amazing opportunity to expand the support we offer our veterans and current members of the armed forces as well as their families.”

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The DMWS is an independent charity providing medical welfare to the armed forces, veterans, NHS staff, emergency services, The Merchant Navy and their immediate family when they are receiving medical treatment in hospital.

The veteran welfare officer position is supported by funding from the Veterans Foundation, Unforgotten Forces and the Armed Forces Covenant Fund.

If you or someone you know is a veteran, serving, or a family member who could benefit from welfare support, you can contact DMWS at referrals@dmws.org.uk or telephone 0800 999 3697.