Service launched to help Brent soldiers affected by trauma in the line of duty

Members of the military service and their families can receive free psychotherapy treatment from the NHS

Health chiefs have teamed up with a charity to provide a service for members of the military service from Brent affected by trauma in the line of duty.

Soldiers in Mind, a pilot scheme, has been rolled out by Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL) in partnership with the Lt Dougie Dalzell MC Memorial Trust (DDMT).

The NHS service, which predominantly uses psychotherapy methods, is available to any member of the serving military, and their family, who can contact the service directly to be confidentially assessed for treatment.

On Saturday, the service was officially launched with Olivia Dalzell, the sister of Lt Dalzell whose death in Afghanistan led to the establishment of the charity, in attendence.

Claire Murdoch, chief executive for CNWL, said: “Soldiers in Mind aims to reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health care and introduces an additional confidential option specifically for service personnel who need to access vital mental health support and treatment.”

The date chosen for the launch of the service is poignant to the Dalzell family as it marks his birthday and the second anniversary of his death.

Miss Dalzell said: “In the forefront of Dougie’s mind was always the wellbeing of his men and he was passionate about making sure they received any help they needed while in service.

“He would be honoured for his name to be associated with this amazing service which aids the recovery of serving soldiers.”

For more information call 0203 214 5970, 07557059752 or alternatively email soldiersinmind.cnwl@nhs.net.