RCGP (Royal College of General Practice) Veteran Friendly Practice Accreditation

In the past 12 months, there has been over a 3-fold increase in the number of practices in NE London accredited by the RCGP as Veteran Friendly. As of 10 Jun 24, 20% of practices, covering 23% of the combined practice population, were accredited.

It does, however, remain extremely likely that a considerable number of the 18300 Veterans (and over 30000 Veterans and their families) in NE London are registered with practices that are not yet accredited. This does not mean that they are not getting the care that they require but it does mean that opportunities to improve and streamline that care may be missed.

Accreditation is a straightforward process which benefits Veterans, practice staff and non-Veteran patients (referral of Veterans to Veteran specific services potentially frees up capacity elsewhere).

Additionally, it can provide evidence of supporting a minority and potentially vulnerable group of patients, as well as showing that due regard is being given to the needs of Armed Forces Veterans.

The RCGP website contains more information on the accreditation programme as well as the application form; it takes just 15 minutes to apply. Course: Veterans’ Health Hub | RCGP Learning

Aidy Meredith is a Veteran and the Regional Lead (London) for Veteran Friendly Accreditation and would love to hear from you if you want to discuss Veteran Friendly Accreditation and getting your practices accredited. He can be contacted via email adrian.meredith@nhs.net.