Marshal of the Royal Air Force Lord Stirrup Appointed President of PTSD Resolution

Photo Credit: Roger Harris -  ( Licence )

PTSD Resolution CIO has announced that Marshal of the Royal Air Force The Right Honourable The Lord Stirrup KG GCB AFC has accepted the position of President of the charity. The Right Honourable Lord Arbuthnot of Edrom PC moves to the role of Vice-President. Lord Stirrup says:

“I am delighted to succeed Lord Arbuthnot as President of PTSD Resolution, and I pay tribute to his outstanding work in support of such an important charity. 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, 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."

Lord Arbuthnot continues his involvement as Vice-President. A former Minister of State for Defence Procurement and Chairman of the House of Commons Defence Select Committee for nearly a decade, he first came across PTSD Resolution's work while scrutinising defence matters in Parliament.

PTSD Resolution has treated 4,500 veterans, reservists and family members since its formation in 2009. The charity delivers therapy free at the point of need through accredited therapists nationwide. PTSD Resolution achieves an 82% therapy completion rate, a 79% reliable improvement rate and a 66% recovery rate for PTSD cases, at an average cost of just £940 per therapy course.

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

ENDS

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Lord Stirrup?

Marshal of the Royal Air Force Lord Stirrup KG GCB AFC served as Chief of the Defence Staff from 2006 to 2010, the most senior military position in the UK. Before that, he was Chief of the Air Staff from 2003 to 2006. A fast jet pilot, he flew combat missions in the Dhofar War and became the first British commander of forces fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan 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.

What will Lord Stirrup do as President of PTSD Resolution?

As President, Lord Stirrup will be the charity's figurehead and principal advocate. He will raise awareness of veterans' mental health issues, support fundraising efforts, and use his extensive contacts across defence, government and business to extend the charity's reach. His personal experience of commanding forces in combat operations brings credibility and understanding when speaking about the mental toll of service. Lord Arbuthnot, the outgoing President, continues as Vice-President, ensuring continuity.

Why has PTSD Resolution appointed a former Chief of the Defence Staff?

Veterans often feel more comfortable seeking help from organisations led by people who understand military life. Lord Stirrup commanded British forces during some of the most demanding operations in recent history. He knows what service personnel go through. His appointment signals to veterans and their families that PTSD Resolution takes their experiences seriously – and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

To speak to us, call 0300 302 0551.

Notes to Editors:

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