News

Trauma Effects Recognised - 22/03/10 Source: Department for Health

Up to £10 million of funding to research the affects of acute trauma, particularly for military personnel was announced today by Health Minister Mike O’Brien.

The investment forms part of the Department of Health’s ongoing commitment to provide care to service veterans and builds on investment over the last decade in research capacity in the field of acute trauma, repair, reconstruction and long-term rehabilitation.

Up to £10m is being made available for a National Institute of Health Research Evaluation, Trials and Studies Coordinating Centre (NETSCC) call for research proposals concerning the management of disability after trauma. This includes people needing physical or psychological rehabilitation following trauma in a military or civilian context.

Trauma is a serious problem often affecting people’s lives from the long term recovery and rehabilitation, both physical and physiological, associated with acute injuries. This funding commitment will build on research capacity, adding value to existing work in this area and supporting the increased number of service personnel who have received serious injuries such as loss of a limb or brain injuries whilst on active service.

Health Minister Mike O’Brien said:

“Trauma can have an unexpected and devastating impact on a person's life and in many cases, changes it forever. Those who have sacrificed so much for their country deserve the very best health care. The funding I am announcing today will make a positive difference to the treatment of all trauma patients, including service personnel, helping us to develop new scientific research to improve their care.”

Today’s research investment follows the recent announcement of a package of improvements to provide Armed Forces veterans and those preparing to make the transition from service to civilian life with the very highest standards of health care. This includes customised health care plans for those leaving the Armed Forces and regular reviews overseen by an NHS case manager for veterans with continuing healthcare needs.