East Cheshire NHS Trust has been accredited as Veteran Aware, meaning it takes account of the needs of members of the Armed Forces Community.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve, or who have served, in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

The accreditation process was overseen by the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA).

Its aim is to make sure that patients from the Armed Forces Community, including families, are paid due regard and are not disadvantaged in terms of access to and outcomes of healthcare, as a result of their military life in line with the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant.

It does this by developing, sharing and driving the implementation of best practice, while at the same time raising standards for everyone in NHS Trusts in England.

Macclesfield Hospital, of Victoria Road. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

The accreditation continues the Trust's ongoing support to the Armed Forces Community after signing the Armed Forces Covenant in 2022.

Chief Executive, Ged Murphy said: "We are extremely proud to support our Armed Forces Community and to be accredited as a Veteran Aware Trust."

"The accreditation recognises our hard work in demonstrating the Trust's commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant and as an exemplar of the best standards of care for the armed forces community past and present."

VCHA Regional Lead Bernadette Knight said: "This is just the start of its journey, but it helps that there is commitment and engagement from the very top in developing its plans for the Armed Forces Community in the area.

"The Trust recognises it is in the early stages of its offer for this community, but with the drive provided by its leadership I have no hesitation in believing that once fully-fledged, the local Armed Forces Community will feel its benefits."

A ceremony was held at Macclesfield Hospital to mark the accreditation celebration.