On Thursday, 19 September, Skipton and Ripon MP, Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE, met with veterans from the Skipton and Ripon parliamentary constituency at the RAF Club on Kirkgate, Ripon.
John Topping, a member of the Yorkshire & Humber Veterans Advisory Pensions Committee, organised the meeting to provide Sir Julian with insight into veterans' perspectives on their relationship with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Veterans UK.
During the meeting Julian sat down with veterans who gave their thoughts on care for veterans who suffer from PTSD as well as improving communication between the MoD and the NHS for access to veteran’s medical records.
Commenting on the meeting, Julian said: “It was a privilege to meet with veterans in Ripon and hear firsthand about their experiences and concerns. Our veterans have given so much in service to our country and it is essential that they receive the support they deserve.
“Their insights have given me a clear picture of how we can improve care for those who have served and I will be raising these concerns directly with the Government.
“Thank you to John for arranging this meeting, the Yorkshire & Humber Veterans Advisory Pensions Committee are vital part of improving the welfare and services available to our veterans.”
Mr Topping said: “It’s very important that we ensure that our veterans and their families are being well looked after. Just to say, “we will make the UK the best place for veterans” and then do nothing is a complete waste of time. The BBC File on Four programme highlighted some of the veterans major concerns with Veterans UK and can be heard at; https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0020hkj”
