An armed forces charity is urging vulnerable veterans to come forward for help following the launch of a new campaign this month.

SSAFA, the Armed Forces Charity, has this month launched its “Got Your Back” campaign which encourages vulnerable veterans of working age in Buckinghamshire to seek help.

The charity’s Bucks branch has so far supported 96 people so far this year, but SSAFA believes there are many veterans in the area who have not come forward – but are in need of help.

Sir Andrew Gregory, chief executive, SSAFA said: “SSAFA understands that our soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen are resilient characters.

“Whilst serving the Nation they become fitter, more robust and more self-sufficient; they are rightly proud of their role and of themselves.

“However, for those individuals and for their families who find the transition out of the Armed Forces difficult, some are then too proud to ask for help.

“The aim of SSAFA’s Got your Back campaign is simple and the message is clear; ‘Those who have served this country and those who have supported them have protected our backs; don’t be too proud now to ask us to protect yours."

The SSAFA can be contacted on confidentially by calling Freephone on 0800 731 4880 or by emailing www.ssafa.org.uk/gotyourback