The Royal Hospital Chelsea, the home of the Chelsea Pensioners

Royal Hospital Chelsea receives Veteran Aware NHS accreditation

23rd February 2024

We are delighted to receive accreditation to the Veteran Aware NHS initiative. Professor Tim Briggs CBE, Chair of Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance, presented the Governor of the Royal Hospital, General Sir Adrian Bradshaw, KCB OBE DL, with the Royal Hospital accreditation at our Chelsea Veteran Outreach event yesterday. 

Prof Tim Briggs CBE (left) presents the Governor of the Royal Hospital (right) with the Veteran Aware plaque

Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance works with NHS providers and commissioners and the independent healthcare sector to improve care for the Armed Forces Community. The accreditation recognises the Royal Hospital’s commitment and care to improve the lives of our nation’s Veterans. 

We were joined by several guest Veterans from all three Forces - the Army, Navy and Air Force, and partner organisations to celebrate this achievement. Guests also received special Veteran Outreach badges to recognise their ongoing support of the programme; presented by the Hospital’s new CEO, David Richmond CBE. 

The Chelsea Veteran Outreach initiative aims to combat social isolation and loneliness within the Veteran community. At the Royal Hospital Chelsea, we understand the unique challenges Veterans may face, and our Outreach events provide the opportunity for Veterans to interact and engage in social activity with fellow military personnel. We are proud to partner with organistaitons including NHS providers, military charities and Government departments, who help provide guidance on topics including wellbeing, pensions and healthcare at our Outreach sessions, to support Veterans navigating life after leaving the military. 

Find out more about our Chelsea Veteran Outreach initiative here. 

Royal Hospital Chelsea Newsletter

Stay up to date with what's going on at The Royal Hospital by signing up for our e‑newsletter.

News

View the archive

Chelsea Pensioners stood in a line in scarlet uniform
New research into the Royal Hospital’s Model of Care suggests Chelsea Pensioners are showing the way for living longer and healthier lives

New research, carried out by Northumbria University, sheds light on the Hospital’s Model of Care. It may give clues as to how to better deal with an ageing population in Britain – with the need being ever more pressing.

Chelsea Pensioner Billy in scarlet uniform
Meet Chelsea Pensioner Billy Knowles

Chelsea Pensioner, Billy, discusses his 25 year career in the British Army after joining at 15 years old, becoming a drummer and how he is continuing his love for music at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.