On 5 November 2025 His Majesty King Charles III visited Chatfield Health Care to highlight the critical healthcare services offered to veterans.
During his visit the King spoke with veterans over tea listening to their personal stories and gaining insight into how the practice supports those who have served. He praised the dedication of the staff for creating an environment tailored to veterans’ unique needs.
Chatfield Health Care is part of a network of 4,450 veteran-friendly GP practices across England accredited by the Royal College of GPs and NHS England.
The practice joined the programme in 2021, and has so far formally identified 49 veteran patients, though staff believe many more in the local area could benefit.
One of the biggest challenges discussed during the visit was simply identifying veterans. As Dr Shane Barker, a GP at the practice and a veteran himself, explained, asking a single question, “Have you ever served in the armed forces?”, can open the door to vital services.
Many veterans don’t volunteer their service history, he said, and often carry “more trauma, both physical and mental.”
King Charles learned about two specific NHS-run support programmes:
- Op Courage, which provides mental health support, including for trauma and psychological wellbeing.
- Op Restore, which helps veterans with physical injuries linked to their service.
He reflected on the transition many veterans face when leaving the armed forces, noting that, “When you leave the forces, you are leaving that whole family of your unit, suddenly left wondering what to do.”
The visit underscores the importance of targeted care for veterans within the NHS, recognising their service and ensuring they receive specialist, compassionate healthcare. Chatfield’s model of monthly dedicated clinics, collaboration with charities, and veteran-focused clinics shows how GP practices can make a real difference.
If you or a member of your family, is a serving member of the armed forces or has previously served in the armed forces please let us know so we can make sure we provide the correct support.
