Young veterans who have served in the British military are being forgotten about, according to a military charity. Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) has argued that there may not be enough support for young people when they leave the forces.

The charity has found that half of those it helps are currently unemployed, meaning they struggle to support themselves. Around three-quarters have long-term health conditions that could prevent them from working in certain industries.

SSAFA has found that many younger vets who served in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Balkans or Northern Ireland, find it difficult to acclimate to civilian life. This can mean they struggle to make the switch, which isn't helped by a lack of support.

The report – called The New Front Line – revealed that the average household income for young vets is around £13,800 a year, which isn't much to survive on. As a result, many feel like they've been let down after serving their country.

Air vice-marshal David Murrey, chief executive of SSAFA, said: “Our research has identified a cohort of veterans living in pretty desperate circumstances, often through no fault of their own. These men and women are not fulfilling their potential in civilian life; their plight is too easily ignored.” 

Although a lot of veterans do manage to switch from military to civilian life, many are still unable to acclimate and are falling through the cracks. A survey of 1,000 veterans aged below 65 who have been helped by the charity showed that around 50 per cent were unemployed and struggling to even buy essentials. 

Those who joined the military at a young age don't know how to survive outside it, with things like paying bills being foreign concepts. This can cause depression and feelings of isolation, which can make the transition a lot more difficult.

SSAFA has suggested that more support be given to those leaving the military to ensure they have the skills they need to succeed in civilian life.

What do you think, are young veterans being failed when they leave the military?