Gerald Jones MP called on the UK Government to do more for the thousands of veterans being failed by the system, after the astonishing and tragic news that over 50 veterans were estimated to have taken their own lives last year.

In a key debate on the issue of veterans’ suicide, the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney MP demanded that the UK Government do more for the mental health of ex-service men and women once they leave the armed forces, to help them readjust to civilian life as well as support the friends and families around them.

Although some improvements have been made to the mental healthcare available to veterans, many military charities say they are still not coping with demand for support. Gerald asked the Minister for Defence People and Veterans what efforts the Government is making to tackle the issue and aid veterans’ transition into civilian life.

Gerald said: “it is fair to say that our armed forces are known throughout the world for their skill, their renowned training capabilities, and the fact that they are highly skilled soldiers, sailors, and airmen and women.

However, the Government do not always apply the same vigour to helping servicemen and women to transition back into ​civilian life.”

Click here to watch Gerald’s speech in full: https://parliamentlive.tv/event/index/6263bd70-070c-4d38-98d9-47ca3f8a8bac?in=18:09:00&out=18:13:45