Support group for troubled ex-servicemen

THE first support group for former servicemen suffering from mental health problems has been launched with the support of the sheriff of Norwich. Veterans Manfred Haggan and Shaun Hobbs set up Navigator to provide comradeship and support to those finding it difficult to adjust to civilian life.

THE first support group for former servicemen suffering from mental health problems has been launched with the support of the sheriff of Norwich.

Veterans Manfred Haggan and Shaun Hobbs set up Navigator to provide comradeship and support to those finding it difficult to adjust to civilian life.

For Mr Haggan, former Warrant Officer with the Royal Army Medical Corps, signing up members to the group was one step closer to making his dream come true. He said: 'We hope to enable members to gain and foster interpersonal relationships, self-confidence, self-esteem and independence.'

They will hold monthly meetings providing guidance and friendship for ex-servicemen, their families and carers in Norfolk and the Waveney area. It has been set up with help and support from Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health Trust, Mind and the Royal British Legion. The meetings will be in Norwich but other locations may be considered.

At the launch event, sheriff of Norwich Roy Waller said: 'I have so many times thought, what of the young people brought back with… no broken bones, no lost limbs, but what of the broken mind because of what they had seen and witnessed? These people need continuous help and hopefully the Navigator group will be able to provide the help and assistance that they and their families so desperately need.'

In a letter of support, Norwich South MP Charles Clarke said: 'Navigator is a brilliant local initiative. It combines care and support with access to high-quality medical assistance and it deserves the best support that we can give.'

People who want to find out more about Navigator can email navigator.ea@live.com or call 07538 633883.