Combat Stress News - Summer 2013

They fight our wars. We fight their battles.

NEWS

NEWSLETTER OF THE EX-SERVICES MENTAL WELFARE SOCIETY

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SUMMER 2013

REHABILITATION

PHOTOGRAPHY AS THERAPY

A shared interest leads to national acclaim

REAL LIFE

TRUE GRIT: MICK’S STORY Back from the edge via our PTSD Intensive Treatment Programme

Getting active How our Centres are giving Veterans the treatment they need

FUNDRAISING

Thank you!

Supporters raise vital funds

Photograph: Jake Sugden

The brief

Intelligence

News/Campaigns/stats

by Chief Executive Andrew Cameron

Helping more, doing it better Welcome to the summer edition of our newsletter, which brings you an update on our work during a period of much change and development. Last year saw a 12% increase in the number of Veterans contacting us directly, to 1,700. The increasing need for our expertise is driving a very rapid expansion in our services and improvements in treatment – it's clear that, in the future, we're going to shoulder much of the burden of specialist treatment.

Thankfully, with the commitment of our staff, we're now able to provide faster treatment and with better results.

The past financial year saw Combat Stress admit 1,294 Veterans and we've been able to discharge 780.

We're increasingly working in partnership with the MOD, the NHS and the numerous charities who provide services which support our cause. Combat Stress is heavily engaged with the government and our charity partners in a number of areas to influence the national development of mental health services for Veterans. New short intensive treatment programmes were approved by our board of trustees in March and will be introduced in the coming year, to complement the NHS-commissioned Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) treatment pathways at our three centres. Alcohol and substance misuse pilot programmes are also being developed to provide support alongside our Community Outreach Teams. This is an important new development as we've been unable to effectively treat some Veterans due to their alcohol and/or substance misuse issues.

The pilot programmes will work within a new joint recovery pathway using the skills of the NHS and Combat Stress.

These programmes can't succeed without investment in those who deliver them so we're recruiting more professionals and increasing our training to develop the skills of therapists and recovery workers. We're also working to measure the effectiveness of our services, and demonstrate to our financial supporters that we're providing a responsive and effective service. With support from Help for Heroes, we've upgraded our clinical facilities at Tyrwhitt House and Hollybush House Treatment Centres. We are also expanding our Audley Court Treatment Centres. As well as all this, we are refreshing the look of the charity to make us more approachable.

In closing, I'd like to pay tribute to Major General Peter Currie CB who has served as Chairman for six years. The Major General and our board of trustees have worked tirelessly with the executive team to deliver a step-change in the capacity and quality of our care. We wouldn't be where we are without his enlightened leadership and commitment to the organisation.

Thank you.

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A single care team will manage a treatment package for Veterans

Many problems, one solution in future Combat Stress has received additional funding for a new case management service to look at ways in which we can offer support and help to Veterans who struggle with both PTSD and substance abuse issues. The aim is to tackle both issues at the same time – treating drink and/or drug misuse and PTSD using different methods, but managing them through a single care team. By making sure that Combat Stress is in charge of the whole treatment package, it’ll come together and work better for the Veterans. The new case management system will focus on identifying and reaching out to this particular group of Veterans with therapies, brief interventions and additional support.

Stop press: NEWS & EVENTS WINBOURNE AWARD

will present their new play,

George Chapman, a Registered Mental Nurse who's been with Combat Stress since this April, received the prestigious Ruth Winbourne Award for Excellence in Mental Health Nursing during the Brighton Academic Awards, which took place at Brighton Dome on 25 July.

Well done, George!

Dreams From the Pit, in the West

WEST END SHOW

and click on current productions.

On 11 November 2013, for one night only, Shadow Road Productions

Combat Stress will benefit from

End at The Palace Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue, London. The performance will be followed by a panel discussion with special guests including Combat Stress CE Andrew Cameron. Tickets available soon – for bookings and information please email tickets@dreamsfromthepit.com or go to www.shadowroad.com

the proceeds.

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Intelligence

4.8

MILLION VETERANS LIVE IN THE UK T H E R O YA L BRITISH LEGION

“FOR MY FATHER” Sir Patrick Stewart opened up to fans in Houston, Texas about his late father's undiagnosed PTSD. During a question and answer session at the COMiCPALOOZA event in May, Sir Patrick spoke about his father's traumatic experience with the British Expeditionary Force in the Second World War. As was typical at the time, his father was told simply to ‘pull himself together’.

Unable to cope, he turned his anger on his wife and family. Sadly, his trauma only came to light after his death, when Sir Patrick came across service records while taking part in the BBC TV documentary series Who Do You Think You Are? In memory of his father, Sir Patrick is “happy to be a patron of Combat Stress”.

Welsh poet Dannie Abse CBE, President of the Welsh Academy of Letters, is full of praise for Pink Mist, a new verse-drama written

by Owen Sheers about three young soldiers from Bristol who are deployed to Afghanistan.

Commissioned by BBC Radio 4 and now published by Faber and Faber, the work explores the human cost of modern warfare.

It tells the story of three school friends, each of who had their own reason for enlisting. After their return, the women in their lives (a mother, a wife, a girlfriend), must share the psychological and physical aftershocks of their tours.

For Pink Mist, Owen Sheers drew upon interviews with soldiers and their families, and enjoyed research support from our very

ENEMY WITHIN CAMPAIGN SUCCESS

own welfare officer Mike Roe. The first extended narrative to emerge from the conflict in Afghanistan, it also features excerpts from such historical works as the medieval Welsh poem Y Gododdin.

20,000

personnel leave the UK Armed Forces annually and have to negotiate the process of re-integration into civilian life Defence Analytical Services and Advice

From left: Josh Lewsey MBE, Dr Chai Patel CBE FRCP, Michael Vaughan OBE

Hanging up your boots Life on the battlefield and the playing field are worlds apart. However, professional soldiers and athletes face a similar challenge, namely how to make the transition from a career of action to an ordinary life. Former Rugby World Cup winner Josh Lewsey MBE joined Brigadier Ed Butler CBE DSO, Damian Hopley, Michael

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News in brief

Tours of duty

Vaughan OBE and Dr Nicola Sorfleet from Combat Stress for a lively discussion at The Royal Geographic Society on 21 February. Held in support of Combat Stress and Restart, the rugby players’ charity, the evening proved to be a great success in raising awareness of the challenges faced by both groups in society.

The Enemy Within Appeal has now ended, successfully achieving its aims of re-shaping our services and addressing head-on the stigma that surrounds Veterans’ mental health. We’re helping more Veterans this year than ever before and they’re getting to us sooner. Those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan are seeking our help 30 months and 18 months after discharge.

Our appeal also focused on the impact of psychological trauma upon Reserve Forces. We’ve now engaged directly with some 3,200 Reservists, military staff and healthcare professionals.

EDUCATING THE GENERAL PUBLIC The King's Centre for Military Health Research has released a new report, Violent Offending by UK Military Personnel Deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, published in The Lancet.

The report’s findings will be used to help Combat Stress and other agencies identify Veterans who are most in need of treatment after leaving the Forces.

Programmes that deal with alcohol misuse and anger management may prove to be key to supporting the small minority of Veterans who are at risk of violent offending but further research is required. It’s now clear that a few highprofile stories in the news have skewed the public’s perception. The fact is that the vast majority (83%) of current and former UK military personnel have no criminal record. When it comes to Veterans over 45, the likelihood of violent behaviour is lower than in the general population.

SUMMER 2013 | COMBAT STRESS NEWS 3

Fundraising

£55 A one-hour session of Art Therapy for five Veterans

Thank you!

£149 A consultation with a Regional Welfare Officer

Our supporters have been busy finding inventive ways to raise vital funds for Combat Stress. A huge thanks to each one of you – without your dedication, we couldn’t do what we do Running for Combat Stress MARATHON MAGIC In April, 10 runners took on the Brighton Marathon, while 10 supporters ran the Virgin London Marathon – together raising more than £21,000. A special mention for Vicky Hebborn, who ran both events!

MEMORIAL RUN Andi Osborne (pictured below) ran the Bungay Marathon in memory of her brother Lt Cdr Andrew StillwellCox, raising over £850.

HAIRY HAGGIS RELAY More than 50 Combat Stress supporters competed in either the Edinburgh Marathon or the Hairy Haggis relay event. They included two teams from Hollybush House and students from the East of Scotland University Air Squadron, and raised almost £11,000.

INTERNATIONAL RUNS In March, Iain Griffiths ran a marathon up and down Kilimanjaro in memory of his cousin Robert Griffiths, raising £1,900. Brothers Jamie, Charlie and Will McCarthy raised over £1,500 running the Rotterdam Marathon; Hannah Dawson ran the Paris Marathon; Tom Chatterton took part in the Copenhagen Marathon, raising over £1,100; and Jason Zerk ran the Calgary Marathon.

UK TO AFGHANISTAN Since the start of 2013, six men and women led by Paul Orry have collectively been running the distance from the UK to Afghanistan – 3,616.41 miles! So far they’ve raised a fantastic £1,500.

Fabulous fete breaks records This year’s Hollybush House Fete saw more than 700 people enjoy a fun-filled afternoon in glorious sunshine. Scottish comedian and Combat Stress supporter Fred MacAulay once again hosted the event.

In the afternoon there was time to remember the late Col Clive Fairweather, as Trevor Royle, trustee, unveiled a plaque in his honour.

The fete raised a record-breaking £4,973.19.

Thanks to all who made this possible. (For more on the event see page 12.)

Dorset Appeal Massive thanks to Diana Bucknall and to everyone else involved in raising more than £63,000 over the past three years. The Dorset Committee held a charity golf day, a bridge competition and many other events.

The Mayor of Reigate presents a cheque to Combat Stress

Drama donation Anton Buckoke and The Festival Players Theatre Company raised over £1,400 for Combat Stress through their production of Shakespeare’s Richard III in 2012. They are fundraising again this year with productions of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Romeo and Juliet. Thank you for this continued support.

Ben Kane in full Roman gear

Magnificent Mayoral support Thanks to the Mayors who supported us during 2012/13: Arun Council – Cllr Ann Smee (Mayor), her husband Cllr Bill Smee and Lynn Haymes (£4,832); Great Aycliffe Council – Cllr Val Raw (Mayor) and Christine Ryder (£1,550); Reigate and Banstead Borough Council – Cllr Roger Newstead and Natasha Hobbs (£5,006); Stevenage Council – Cllr John Lloyd (Mayor) and Tracey Frost (£2,211).

Road runners James Baxter and Tim Richardson organised the now firmly established AA Commemorative Military Road Run for pre-1945 vehicles. The rally, which includes over 50 vehicles, runs from Sevenoaks to Hastings and this year raised £1,600.

Roman far and wide Authors Ben Kane, Anthony Riches and Russell Whitfield walked the length of Hadrian’s Wall in full Roman gear to raise money for Combat Stress and Médecins Sans Frontières, raising an amazing £13,500.

4 COMBAT STRESS NEWS | AUTUMN 2013

Musical tribute Fiona MacDonald hosted a tribute to Colonel Clive Fairweather with Major General Andrew MacKay on the Tall Ship in Glasgow in April.

The musical evening raised over £5,000.

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Fundraising

Family fun Nick Cuppello and the Tri Services Scooter Club Family Fun Day featured local air cadets helping out on the day. The Stock Dove pub, Romiley, topped up the funds raised by a fantastic £300, taking the total to £1,584.

Pianothon challenge In May, James Major took on a mammoth musical challenge with his 12-hour ‘Pianothon’.

Tinkling the ivories from 8am to 8pm in Yarwell Village Hall, James raised £1,710.

On song After a chance meeting with a Veteran suffering from PTSD, Maeve O’Boyle wrote the powerful song Brothers In Arms, which has been released, with every penny raised going to Combat Stress: www.maeveoboyle.co.uk

Three-day fundraisers Dave Hughes and Alan Sullivan, of the Pegasus Masonic Lodge, organised a motorcycle tour of Wales and a concert in aid of Combat Stress this year, raising over £15,000.

Charity of the year Glasgow’s Deacon Convener Col John Kelly this year selected Combat Stress as his nominated charity. The main event was the Trades House Ball held in May at the Hilton Hotel, Glasgow, with more than 400 guests.

Particular thanks go to special guest Simon Weston. £21,000 has been raised so far.

Left: Special guest Simon Weston at the Trades House Ball Below: Thanks to members of the Pegasus Masonic lodge

Notes of thanks

Quick thank yous

Supporters share their feelings about Combat Stress

Lee Taylor and a team of soldiers took part in the Falkland Islands 65-mile Loaded March, raising £1,706.

I just wanted to sa y a quick thank you for your letter acknowledging my recent donation. It’s the first time a charity has done th is without asking for more money.

Combat Stress was a charity very close to my Fa ther’s heart and he had been donating for years. He didn’t talk much abou t his WWII experiences but I be lieve they stayed with him throughout his life. There were many aspects of Army life he loved but later in life I believe some of the ‘darker’ aspects came back to him. Keep up the good work, I will continu e to support Combat Stress.

Jim Gunn, a Combat St ress supporter

Holcombe Hockey Club played a world recordbeating 40 hours of hockey, and raised £1,400!

I am very interested in Combat Stress as I was th e Honorary Secretary, Leatherh ead SSAFA for over nine years. The casework was challenging but clos e to my heart as a Naval widow. Re ading your magazines, I fully ap preciate the work of your organ isation and I am enclosing a cheque.

Mrs A Beeching

Children at St Mary’s Primary School in Hamilton handed us a cheque for £500.

John Woodruff cycled from London to Paris in May this year and raised £2,234.

Irene Richards and the Chalfont Flower Club held a Flower Festival in Amersham, Bucks, raising over £2,000.

Veteran Bill Houston presented us with £1,440.

He collected donations from staff and customers at B&M Bargains, Birkenshaw.

Members of Troon Chorus raised £500 from their Christmas Concert.

The Stewarton Country Dance Group held a dance in May and raised around £585.

Andrew Jones and other colleagues from BAE Systems in Prestwick took on a cycle challenge around Scotland earlier this year and donated £760.13.

Your chance to support us Private Peaceful A screening of the film Private Peaceful will take place at the Everyman Cinema in Winchester on 11 November at 7pm. There will be a wine and canapé reception at the Town Hall, followed by a talk from the producer and a screening of the film. For tickets and further information, please contact John Hart at johnhart012@gmail.com

University Lodges’ Ball 2013 This prestigious and lavish event is taking place at the Honourable Artillery Company, London, on Saturday 23 November.

This promises to be an exceptional evening held by the Masonic Lodges, with a champagne reception, an opening ceremony, traditional ballroom dancing in the

Prince Consort Room, live music and visual performers. There are also a number of optional banquets taking place prior to the Ball at a selection of City locations. Proceeds will go to Combat Stress and the Royal College of Surgeons. For full details and to purchase tickets, please visit www. universitylodgesball.com

We are grateful to everyone who has given up their time and energy to fundraise on our behalf, and to everyone who has donated. Your stories and commitment are spectacular and we thank every one of you.

WWW.COMBATSTRESS.ORG.UK

SUMMER 2013 | COMBAT STRESS NEWS 5

Intensive Treatment

True grit: back from the edge Falklands War Veteran Mick Greaves explains how Audley Court’s PTSD Intensive Treatment Programme helped him to regain control of his life

I was first diagnosed with PTSD in 2009. After a stay in a psychiatric facility, following numerous suicide attempts and episodes of self-harm, I was referred to the psychiatrist at the Community Mental Health Team. I’d been using alcohol, Class A drugs, prescription medication and self-harm to help take away the flashbacks, nightmares and intrusive thoughts, smells and tastes I’d been suffering with for years after my

return from the Falklands War. I knew there was something wrong with me, I just didn’t know what it was and sometimes I thought I was going mad.

Help at last I was referred to Combat Stress in 2012 for specialist treatment and, after an initial five-day assessment, PTSD was confirmed by their psychiatrist. After another 10-day assessment – group therapy and oneto one-sessions with a

lead nurse worker – it was suggested that I’d benefit from attending the PTSD Intensive Treatment Programme. I started the course at the beginning of 2013, in a group of six other Veterans.

At first I was very sceptical that anyone could help me clear the mess that was in my head. I’d been having these issues for so long that I thought they’d be with me forever.

Dr charlotte Johnson on mick’s time at audley court When Mick first arrived at Audley Court, our treatment centre in Shropshire, he was highly anxious, struggled to concentrate and found it difficult to find the words to express himself properly.

Would he benefit from the PTSD Intensive

6 COMBAT STRESS news | summer 2013

Treatment Programme?

Mick’s psychologist told us he talked about his frequent nightmares and his difficulty sleeping at night. The next few weeks were clearly going to be a big challenge for him.

It was clear from day one that he was determined to put

every effort into the residential PTSD course, to bring about positive change in his life. Mick worked incredibly hard, attending all of the group sessions and spending time at the Occupational Therapy Centre. He engaged well with his

psychological therapy, learning to open up about his feelings and to talk about very painful memories. Mick experienced strong physical reactions when traumatic images came back to him but was able to draw upon his coping strategies to tolerate his distress.

By the end of the PTSD Intensive Treatment Programme, Mick had made tremendous progress and demonstrated such optimism for his future. His high levels of motivation and determination have been an inspiration to us all at Audley Court.

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Intensive Treatment

It was really hard work dealing with the emotions that came up but it was worth every painful hour.

— Mick Greaves

Survivor guilt The weeks were full-on, made up of group work and 15 sessions with a psychologist, who helped me to understand that what happened in the Falklands wasn’t my fault.

I learned that I suffered from survivor guilt: why had I returned home and others hadn’t? It was really hard work dealing with the emotions that came up but it was worth every painful hour. I could feel myself getting better as the days went on. My moods got better, I wasn’t as angry and I was able to open up and tell the care team things I’d never shared

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with anyone before. I started to get better.

New beginnings I’ve been home from Combat Stress for six months and all my symptoms have reduced.

The nightmares have decreased and I learned distraction techniques to help me bring my thoughts to the present and not dwell on the past. My relationship with my partner has improved – she no longer worries about where I am or what I’m doing – and I’m also starting to get a relationship back with myself, so to speak. I can’t thank Combat Stress enough, they have given me my life back.

S U P P O R T I N G

V E T E R A N S

Renfrewshire eco walk: steps to health THERE’S A GREAT DEAL of evidence to prove that regular contact with the natural environment will benefit both physical and mental health. With recent research from the Office of National Statistics revealing that up to a fifth of UK adults experience some form of anxiety or depression, it looks like many of us could benefit from being out and about more.

Walking is ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels who want to be more active. Regular walking has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, including heart disease, Type II diabetes, asthma and strokes. When we walk, just as when undertaking any kind of exercise, our brain releases chemicals called endorphins which make us feel good. Research indicates that between 20 and 40 minutes of aerobic activity results in mood improvements that continue for several hours, meaning that walking faster than strolling (but not jogging or running) can make us feel good and help cope with issues such as depression, stress and anxiety. Regular exercise can also boost self-esteem and help us all to concentrate, sleep well, look healthier and feel better.

It’s hats off then to the Renfrewshire Client Activity Group, who walked the 12.5km Castle Semple Trail in June. Led by Anna Reeve, one of our Mental Health Practitioners in Scotland, the group enjoyed the trail that follows scenic loch shore paths, tranquil woodland trails, a cycle track, quiet country roads and pavements along the shores of Castle Semple Loch, round Kenmure Hill to Howwood and back to Lochwinnoch.

The Renfrewshire Group’s ‘eco walk’ is just one of many Veterans’ group activities. Last year, some 3,532 Veterans attended groups across the country led by our 14 Community Outreach Teams. Activities range from Gardening Leave, a group that meets for horticultural therapy in the lovely grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea and another site in Ayrshire, to a thriving drama group that is always looking for volunteers.

Group activities are designed to help Veterans achieve such personal goals as increasing their social interaction levels, alleviating stress, getting creative, learning a new skill and getting healthy. The activities also generate positive feedback, boost self-esteem and create opportunities for Veterans to make friends in a safe and caring environment.

SUMMER 2013 | COMBAT STRESS NEWS 7

Our Vision is that Veterans will be able to live free from the harmful effects of psychological wounds.

The Perception Equation How Combat Stress is viewed by all audiences, including Veterans, medical professionals and supporters, is vital as it lets us help more Veterans…

We know that mental health has been a taboo subject for many years, but things are starting to change. The public at large is beginning to understand that mental health, like physical health, is changeable and that illness doesn’t mean weakness.

8 COMBAT STRESS news | summer 2013

Therefore, it’s crucial that Combat Stress presents itself in a way which looks beyond the flashbacks, nightmares and anxiety, and sees the potential within each individual Veteran. They come to us with a real desire to reclaim their lives and protect their relationships.

It’s up to us to make sure when someone encounters Combat Stress, they recognise a professional organisation with heritage, expertise, pride and proven ability to help Veterans change their lives for the better.

We’ve been looking at how Combat Stress presents itself to the outside world. In the past, we struggled to explain simply and clearly the issues that our Veterans face and how we help them. We often relied on striking images and language focused on the difficulties Veterans suffered. This helped Combat Stress to show Veterans who were in

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Future Facing

Our Mission is to provide timely, effective clinical treatment and welfare support to Veterans who suffer from psychological wounds.

The Combat Stress logo has been designed to reflect the charity’s strength and determination to help Veterans overcome the daily challenges they face with trauma

In order to realise this we must: • Be accessible to those who need help.

• Be expert at what we do and recognised as such.

• Work in partnership with others.

• Raise awareness of Veterans’ needs.

Our Values are to: • Always put Veterans at the centre of our work.

• To aspire to excellence in everything we do.

• To foster a culture of respect and integrity.

need that we understood their situation and it encouraged donors to help us keep this vital work going.

However, in 2012 it became clear that focusing on our achievements would actually serve us better. We needed to show the solutions we offer and help Veterans to rediscover the pride and self-belief that they found in themselves when they were in uniform.

The timing is crucial. There’s been a great deal of media coverage in recent years so the general public is more aware of Veterans’ mental health issues and the work of Combat Stress.

www.combatstress.org.uk

We’re concerned that after the troops withdraw from Afghanistan, the amazing work and commitment of Armed Forces will start to slip from the public’s mind.

Before that happens, we need to make sure that the public image of Combat Stress accurately represents the charity and what we really do achieve. That’s why we spoke to Veterans, supporters and staff about what Combat Stress means to them and they kindly guided us as we developed a new logo for the charity.

We need a memorable persona that’s relevant and recognisable to Veterans, donors, medical professionals – anyone

who might support or need us – before opportunities to hear about us start to decrease. We know Combat Stress and our Veterans have achieved a great deal and that we are capable of more.

Collectively, that is our greatest strength.

Our logo, imagery, language and tone of voice need to reflect our strengths.

Over the coming year we’ll align the Combat Stress brand to clearly define us as the leading Veterans’ mental health charity – a catalyst for better lives and stronger families. We’ll instil a culture of pride, respect and personal recovery in everything that we do.

summer 2013 | COMBAT STRESS news 9

Well-being & Rehabilitation

The road to recovery A new residential skills programme to promote everyday well-being COMBAT STRESS is now evolving – from delivering ‘one size fits all’ clinical services towards tailored ‘personcentred’ therapies and programmes. We’ve learnt that, apart from dealing with the immediate issues caused by trauma-related injuries, Veterans need more support to meet their range of needs.

Consequently, we’ve piloted new schemes focusing on recovery and sustained future well-being, which include occupational therapy to learn essential living skills; art therapy; better sleep hygiene; relaxation techniques; and informal sessions for Veterans to practice social interaction.

Excellent results from clinical trials have led to our new Well-being, Recovery and Social

Integration Breaks programme. Run in conjunction with The Royal British Legion, this will see Veterans spend a week at one of four centres in the UK, where they’ll enjoy a full schedule of group and individual sessions.

Veterans’ families are a crucial part of the recovery process, so wives and partners are welcome on the breaks and they are invited to attend dedicated sessions to help them address their worries and gain a better understanding of their partners’ needs.

The feedback received from the programme’s initial sessions has been positive and we’ll continue to listen to our Veterans and their families, and adapt our services to best meet their needs.

A MEETING OF MINDS AND MEMORIES How two Veterans made the journey from occupational therapy to national acclaim via photography WHEN ALAN WALKER and Steve Brown met two years ago, during a fortnightlong treatment programme at Tyrwhitt House, a firm friendship began. They discovered they’d served in the same theatres of operation and shared a deep love of photography.

Alan and Steve talked as their treatment continued

10 COMBAT STRESS NEWS | SUMMER 2013

and they began to discuss using photography as a vehicle for occupational therapy. They raised the idea with their therapist, who was very supportive and full of encouragement. The pair were invited to submit work to the Combat Stress Art Show in 2011 and entered photographs in the Shards of Hope exhibition

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Well-being & Rehabilitation

COMING HOME

A selection of Active Imagery photography

New memoir by ex-Reservist Jake Wood chronicles the after-effects of conflict

that took place at Guildford Cathedral last November.

During their treatment, with the impetus of the praise they received from the public, Alan and Steve launched a business and website to advertise their services. Through Active Imagery they’re turning their love of photography into their work. They have a stunning portfolio and a diverse client list which truly reflects their wide-ranging abilities. Most recently, the British Superbikes Team GB-Moto Honda have appointed them their official photographers for the 2013 season – Active is the word!

Both Steve and Alan benefited enormously from the positivity and support they received in their occupational therapy sessions during their treatment

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at Tyrwhitt House. They both feel they wouldn’t have possessed the courage to take their passion further and create a new business without the benefit of our services, which use art and creativity as a means of self-expression and cognitive therapy.

Alan and Steve have shown how effective the ongoing occupational therapy programmes can be. The therapists are full of admiration for the Veterans too – they know that for many each day is a battle and it takes hard work to fulfil their dreams.

Active Imagery will be holding further exhibitions in the future: visit www. active-imagery.co.uk to find out more.

Jake’s memoir is a vivid, visceral read

THE government plans to reduce the number of regulars in the British Army to 82,000 by 2018 and increase the role played

by Reservists, bringing their numbers up to 30,000. Jake Wood, a former Reservist, has written Among You about his daily battle with the psychological wounds of warfare and the plight of undiagnosed PTSD. Among You has received many five star reviews, not least of which comes from our own Marketing Officer, Jennifer Sanderson.

“This book taught me so much about the effects of conflict and battle on the soldiers who, indeed, live among us,” she says. “It’s a real emotional roller-coaster of a journey, honestly written with no holds barred. Jake used his own experiences vividly to bring to life the impact of PTSD so readers can’t fail to gain real insight into the condition.”

With a growing number of Reservists, there’s now a pressing need to seriously address their issues, which are unique to the nature of their service and fully combined with their civilian life. Furthermore, findings by the King’s Centre for Military Health Research have indicated that Reservists are at greater risk of suffering from deploymentinduced mental health-related issues than regular soldiers. The very nature of their deployment does not allow for time to share thoughts and experiences with colleagues at their barracks or base.

Reservists come home to their families and work colleagues, with whom it’s hard to share difficult memories.

Combat Stress will continue to work hard to ensure that Serving and ex-Serving Reservists are aware of support networks and programmes we offer to help them.

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Partnerships & Meet Our Team

Kath Provan and Fred MacAulay at the Summer Fete

Award-winning partnerships

Working with other organisations whose services complement or enhance our own means that Combat Stress can do more for Veterans. Partnerships increase our reach and accessibility, and also mean we don’t duplicate services.

Our Director of Medical Services Dr Walter Busuttil and Community Psychiatric Nurse John Marham were instrumental in setting up the North Essex Veterans Mental Health Network (NEVMHN), with the support of Veterans First. A unique service, Veterans First operates as a specialist mental health team providing assessment and care co-ordination, support groups and a carers group for Veterans in North Essex.

NEVMHN won the prestigious Care of Veterans Award at the Military and Civilian Health Partnership Awards in May. “The NEVMHN is leading the way in showing that multi-agency collaborations can succeed,” said Dr Busuttil. “The network has helped many Veterans, particularly those making the transition from military to civilian life.”

Combat Stress is proud to be part of the NEVMHN partnership but would like to emphasise that although we’ve been recognised by this prestigious award, we are involved in many other equally worthwhile collaborative networks.

NEVMHN at the awards ceremony

Photo: Duncan Heppenstall

Why our collaborative approach to services is best for Veterans

Five things I’ve learnt Kath Provan, Fundraising Officer at Hollybush House, shares her thoughts about what it takes to put together a fantastic event This year’s Summer Fete at Hollybush House raised just under £5,000 – an additional £1,200 from Hillbillies Motor Cycle Club put the icing on the cake! Here are my handful of top fundraising tips:

1

Everything is better in sunshine

2

Expect the unexpected

Saturday 8 June was the most successful fete in Hollybush House’s history. The glorious weather played a large part in bringing out the crowds, as did the awareness we raised beforehand.

Our volunteers, who were drawn from supporters and Hollybush House staff, set up in good time. Good job, as the public started arriving early and demanding burgers by 11.30am, which was half an hour before we opened!

However, we rose to the challenge and our barbecue crew served all afternoon.

“Everyone had a great time and the visitors learned more about our work” 12 COMBAT STRESS news | summer 2013

3

It’s important to make connections with the local community and local celebrities – and ask for their support!

The fete was officially opened at noon

by Scottish comedian and broadcaster Fred MacAulay, a long-time supporter of Combat Stress. He gave everyone a run through of what we’d planned for the afternoon and was a great addition to the event. A regular visitor to Hollybush House, Fred will be back to see the Veterans later this year.

Ayr fire station brought along one of their impressive engines which, together with an imposing military vehicle from 251 Transport Squadron Irvine, really delighted the children present. Animal lovers got to meet Shetland pony Cruachan 4, the Royal Regiment of Scotland’s mascot, and local handler Jamie Whiteford brought his birds of prey.

There was soon a rush of excitement upon hearing the arrival of a hundred motorbikes. What an excellent image the Hillbillies MCC group made as they came down the driveway, with East Ayrshire Provost Jim Todd bringing up the rear on his bright yellow trike. After donning his

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Fundraising

Provost chains, Jim presented trophies to his fellow motorcyclists whose machines had been judged by Hollybush House Veterans. Lez Ritchie, Chairman of the Hillbillies MCC, presented a cheque for £1,200 to Andrew Cameron, our Chief Executive – this was raised by a dance in May, the profits from a local fete and the £5 entry to the Hollybush House ride-out which every biker had kindly donated.

4

Veterans are always willing to muck in – and have many talents

5

We can have fun while raising awareness of our work

In the run up to the fete many resident Veterans assembled gazebos, set up games and made the grounds look great.

They also helped out on the day itself, which started with Veteran Alex Wallace playing his accordion. Veteran Hugh Scott then piped everyone round to the annex area for the plaque unveiling on a residential building in honour of the late Col Clive Fairweather. Hugh travelled from Edinburgh to provide this part of the day’s activities and was proud to do so as Clive had been his commanding officer.

Clive was a tireless supporter of our work and raised thousands for Veterans.

The photo on page 12 was taken by another Veteran, Duncan Heppenstall, and is yet more evidence of the talent among the Combat Stress family!

Continuing support Thanks to our partners and sponsors, Combat Stress continues to help an increasing number of Veterans Combat Stress is widely respected as the leading charity delivering mental health services to Veterans. To meet this growing demand, we must maximise our own capabilities and ensure that we forge strategic and funding partnerships wherever we can.

For many years we’ve built strong links with organisations that help fund our work and provide services in partnership with us.

These collaborations are broadly based and include the government, the NHS, and a wide range of charities and other organisations.

With much gratitude, we acknowledge the support we receive from Service charities, without whose help the needs of Veterans suffering from PTSD couldn’t be met.

We also express our sincere thanks to those foundations, companies and trusts who generously support our work.

Andrew Cameron thanked everyone for attending and all their hard work, then introduced Combat Stress trustee Trevor Royle to say a few words in memory of Clive. After a closing song from Ayrshire singing star Nika, the raffle was drawn, silent auction prizes handed out and the day was drawn to a close. It was a very poignant occasion and we were delighted to share it with Clive’s daughter, Charlotte, who commented that we were quite right to continue straightaway with the raffle draw as her dad would’ve said: “Let’s get on and make some more money”.

As stalls were dismantled guests were reluctant to leave but staff and volunteers were more than happy to close shop, having worked non-stop. However, it was worth it. Everyone had a great time and the visitors learned more about our work. We also had coverage in the press, spreading the word even further. We’re already looking forward to next year!

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SUMMER 2013 | COMBAT STRESS news 13

Corporate Partners & Fundraising

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS Michelle Campbell, Corporate Partnerships Manager, with the latest news from our generous benefactors...

NETWORK RAIL In March, Combat Stress received a donation for our South East Community Outreach Team from Network Rail, who have a long history of supporting national and local charities. This funding will enable our multi-disciplinary team to provide specialist clinical services and welfare support tailored to the individual – from initial welfare and clinical assessments through to traumafocused therapies and ongoing support groups. For the last two years staff at Network Rail have volunteered at Combat Stress events at the Tower of London and Battle Proms.

LEND LEASE Complex construction schemes are the specialty of Lend Lease – with their defence business unit being dedicated to improving accommodation standards for military personnel. So what could be more fitting than Lend Lease deciding to support Combat Stress with the proceeds from their recent black tie dinner and auction?

A big thank you to Lend Lease who raised a staggering £18,150!

THALES Over the last couple of months Combat Stress has received active support from Thales, one of the leading manufacturers of defence and electronic products.

To coincide with Mental Health Week (13-19 May), Thales hosted an Insight Lecture at their head office in Crawley. Dr Nicola

Martin Duncan and Valerie Albert

Sorfleet (Manager of Psychological Therapies), Uta Hope (Director of Fundraising and Communications), and a Combat Stress Veteran spoke movingly about mental health and the work that we do. Thales will also sponsor the cost of our Annual Review in 2013 and the Combat Stress Armistice Lecture in November.

But that’s not all. As Thales is a key supporter of the Armed Forces Art Society (AFAS), the company’s CEO Victor Chavez, is to present a cash prize to one of our Veterans whose artwork was displayed at the annual show at the Mall Galleries in London.

STOP PRESS! Combat Stress went head-to-head with The Royal British Legion in the final stage of the BAE Systems charity of the year awards. After an employee vote at BAE’s Preston and Samlesbury sites, the final decision was almost too close to call, but we were just pipped at the post by our good friends at the ’Legion. All is not lost, however, as BAE Systems are set to hold two events for Combat Stress and also consider us for their Payroll Giving Scheme.

If your company would like to support Combat Stress please contact Michelle Campbell on 01372 587 157 or email michelle.campbell@combatstress.org.uk

14 COMBAT STRESS NEWS | SUMMER 2013

ANOTHER WAY TO GIVE How a legacy donation can help Veterans and your loved ones For many people, making regular donations to their favourite charities, no matter how good the cause, isn’t really an option. Just meeting your day-to-day commitments for family and friends can be expensive.

But there is one way you can help us and make sure that your family and friends are looked after. You can leave us a legacy in your will. It’s just another way of giving that really has benefits for everyone.

When you make a will, you decide who gets what, not the tax man. It’s a sad fact that almost 60% of adults in the UK don’t have a will, which means they’ll have no say in how their assets are distributed after their death.

Leaving Combat Stress a legacy will help provide us with a stable financial base and is the most cost-effective way for us to raise funds. Your family will benefit, too – if you leave 10% or more of your estate to charity, the rest of it, which is subject to tax, is then assessed at the reduced rate of 36%.

Making a will isn’t at all difficult. Do-it-yourself wills are very popular, there’s a lot of information available online and will-writing packs can be bought from stationers for about £20. However, for peace of mind, it’s best to get professional help.

More information is available from www.lawsociety.org.uk and www.willwriters.com – or call us on 01372 587 153

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Giving a gift to a Veteran is as easy as 1-2-3…

1) Call us to use your credit card or set up a monthly Direct Debit: 01372 587 151 2) Visit our website: combatstress.org.uk/donate

A reason to give In loving memory of Corporal Channing Day Channing Day was killed in Afghanistan in October 2012 while on patrol in Helmand Province. A serving medic in 3 Medical Regiment, Channing was just 25 years old when she died. Her story was first brought to our attention when donations in her memory were made to Combat Stress following her funeral.

Not long after their terrible loss, Channing’s friends and family made the brave decision that this positivity should continue in tribute to her life, and started organising fundraising events. Since then, they’ve shown an overwhelming amount of support for Combat Stress, which has spread far and wide.

In November 2012, Channing’s friend Jody Mardling, the 73 Armoured Engineer Squadron and 21 Engineer Regiment all took part in the Boars Insanity Challenge, completing a gruelling 60-day workout in the amazing time of just 50 hours, raising almost £5,000. This March, Major Neill Bramble organised the Camp Souter Half Marathon in Kabul, Afghanistan, which saw 62 personnel running at 2,000m above sea level and raised almost £4,000. In addition, Nadine Livingstone participated in the Belfast Marathon in May this year; the Comber Young Men Football Club held a charity night that raised £600, and there have been many other fundraising events including a charity football match.

Channing’s grandfather Raymond raised £3,500 selling badges. If you’d like to purchase one please get in touch by emailing him: raymond1133@hotmail.com The fundraising in Channing’s memory continues to flourish – Jen Crockard and 3 Medical Regiment are due to head out on a kayak expedition and hold an auction night later in the year.

In Channing’s memory and in response to the funds that have been raised for Combat Stress in her name, we have hung a plaque in the memorial garden at our Surrey Treatment Centre, Tyrwhitt House.

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3) Send us a cheque or credit card donation: FREEPOST SW3850 Tyrwhitt House, Oaklawn Road Leatherhead Surrey KT22 0BX NAME ADDRESS

POSTCODE EMAIL Please tick this box if you’re happy to receive emails from Combat Stress I wish to help Combat Stress provide care and support to ex-Service men and women so that they can cope with their trauma and reclaim their lives.

• Our Community Outreach Teams help Veterans at home and in the community.

• Our three Treatment Centres provide both residential treatment and outpatient facilities.

PLEASE FIND ENCLOSED MY DONATION OF £ I enclose a cheque / postal order / CAF voucher made payable to Combat Stress.

OR please debit my: Credit / Debit / CAF Card (delete as appropriate)

CARD NO: EXPIRY DATE: (mm/yy)

START DATE: (mm/yy)

SECURITY CODE: (last 3 digits of the number on the signature strip) ISSUE NO:

SIGNATURE:

CARDHOLDER’S NAME: Please tick this box if you would like to receive a thank you letter.

SUNL13

If you’re a UK taxpayer (remember, pensions are taxed too) we can reclaim the tax you’ve already paid on the money that you give to help our work.

For every £1 you donate, we’re able to claim an additional 25p from the Inland Revenue. In last the financial year we raised in excess of £270,000 through Gift Aid. Simply tick this box You must pay an amount of Income Tax and / or Capital Gains Tax for each tax year (1 April to 31 March) that’s at least equal to the amount of tax that Combat Stress and all the charities or Community Association Sports Clubs (CASCs) which you donate to will receive on your gifts for that tax year.

You must complete the name and address box above for us to reclaim your tax.

Please return this completed form to the address above You may, of course, save us the cost of postage and provide your own stamp, in which case please return to: The Director of Fundraising, Combat Stress, Tyrwhitt House, Oaklawn Road, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 0BX Registered Charity Number: 206002 Charity Number Scotland: SC 038828 Company limited by guarantee: Registration Number 256353 SUMMER 2013 | COMBAT STRESS NEWS 15

Volunteering

Lynn and Jo are loyal supporters of Combat Stress

Photo: Mark Williamson

Come join us at Walk on Wales

Inspired to help Friends Lynn Bartlett and Jo Crockett were moved to volunteer for Combat Stress after watching a TV documentary SEVERAL YEARS AGO Lynn Barlett and Jo Crockett met through a mutual friend and have been firm pals ever since.

In 2009, Lynn saw Rory Bremner’s episode of the TV ancestry programme Who Do You Think You Are?, which featured Combat Stress. During the show, Rory learned about his father’s experiences in WWII and why he had then become a remote and distant figure to his son. This struck a chord with Lynn as her grandfather had served at Gallipoli during WWI and suffered from undiagnosed PTSD. Lynn discussed this with her father, a Navy Veteran, who said that these problems were never talked about as those who served were simply expected to get “back to normal”.

With this connection to Combat Stress and a mutual love for music, Lynn and Jo decided to volunteer at the Battle Proms held at Blenheim Palace, and later also volunteered at Ragley Hall, Highclere Castle, Hatfield House and Althorp Park. Combat Stress is the charity partner for all of these events.

Lynn is keen for others to support us, and has asked her colleagues to help out at Ragley Hall this year. Lynn and Jo are key to our fundraising efforts at the Battle Proms and we very much appreciate their help –

they’re wonderful supporters. Combat Stress flourishes on the efforts of so many people, from those who deliver frontline services or work behind the scenes, to individual donors and corporate sponsors. However, special mention must be reserved for those who give so freely of their spare time.

There are many ways in which people can volunteer, or indeed fundraise, for Combat Stress, including the Walk on

“I feel passionate about Combat Stress. Supporting our Armed Forces when they return home must continue so that they can be assured that, should they need professional help, it’s there for them and their families” Lynn Bartlett Wales challenge – you’ll find the details of this on the right. Alternatively, visit www.combatstress.org.uk and click on ‘We need your support’ for lots of other ideas of how you can get involved.

COMBAT STRESS IS delighted to be one of two charities that will benefit from Walk on Wales, which is to start in Cardiff on 25 August 2013. The event aims to raise £1 million to share between us and the Welsh Guards Afghanistan Appeal. These funds will help Combat Stress provide vital mental health treatment and support to 391 Veterans across Wales, and many more who may need us in the future.

During the walk, teams will carry a specially commissioned silver baton inscribed with the names of the 50 Welsh Guardsmen who have died in action since the end of WWII. The baton will travel the entire 870 miles of the Welsh Coast Path before finally being laid to rest inside Llandaff Cathedral.

It is hoped that through fundraising, those taking part in the walk will raise a minimum of £250 could you be up for this challenge?

For further details of the walk, please visit www.walkonwales.org