Lord Stirrup Appointed President of Charity PTSD Resolution

Marshal of the Royal Air Force Lord Stirrup has accepted the position of President of PTSD Resolution, the mental health charity for armed forces veterans, reservists and family members. Lord Arbuthnot, who has led the charity as President since 2023, moves to the role of Vice-President.

PTSD Resolution has treated 4,500 veterans since its formation in 2009. The charity delivers free therapy through a nationwide network of 200 therapists. It achieves an 82% therapy completion rate, with 79% reliable improvement and 66% recovery for PTSD cases.

Lord Stirrup said:

"Our service personnel perform their difficult and dangerous tasks with courage, determination and skill, but the cost to them does not end when they leave the military. Many veterans grapple with mental health issues long afterwards, and we owe them all the help which is in our power to give. As a society, we can do no less for those who have given so much on our behalf."

Lord Stirrup served as Chief of the Defence Staff from 2006 to 2010, leading Britain's Armed Forces during concurrent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Before this, he was Chief of the Air Staff from 2003 to 2006.

A fast jet pilot who flew combat missions in the Dhofar War while seconded to the Sultan of Oman's Air Force, Lord Stirrup understands first-hand what service personnel face. He was the first British commander of forces fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan during Operation Veritas in 2001. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II appointed him Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter in 2013. He sits as a Crossbench peer in the House of Lords.

Colonel Tony Gauvain (retired), Chairman and co-founder of PTSD Resolution, said:

"We're delighted that Lord Stirrup has agreed to take on this role. Having commanded forces in Afghanistan and led our Armed Forces during years of intense operations, he has seen what prolonged conflict does to people. That understanding matters enormously to veterans seeking help. His support will help us reach more of those who served and who are struggling."

Charles Highett, CEO of PTSD Resolution, said:

"Lord Stirrup's appointment is a tremendous endorsement of the charity's work. His understanding of military service and the challenges veterans face will help us extend our reach to more of those who need support."

Treatment typically begins within 12 days of registration. No GP referral is needed. The charity supports veterans across the United Kingdom, including those in custody, and online across the world.

The charity's impact extends beyond individual therapy. PTSD Resolution has partnered with organisations such as the Thrive Together initiative, part of the Armed Forces Covenant Fund (AFCF), Change, Grow, Live (CGL), The Poppy Factory and Lloyds Veterans Charity (LVC). It also works with security professionals' associations, major employers of veterans, including CIISec, ASIS and the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals.

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Editors notes

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About PTSD Resolution PTSD Resolution provides free, prompt therapy to veterans, reservists and their families dealing with PTSD, anxiety and depression. Treatment is delivered by accredited Human Givens therapists throughout the UK.

Charity No. 1202649 Website: www.ptsdresolution.org Helpline: 0300 302 0551

Media enquiries: PTSD Resolution Email: contact@ptsdresolution.org