Soldiers’ mental health problems cost £27 a minute

As many as 4,000 men and women coming out of the armed forces in 2014 will need support when it comes to tackling mental health problems.

Combat Stress is aiming to help as many of those affected by issues of the mind following a stint in the army, RAF or Navy.

The charity told the Times how dealing with mental health problems in ex-servicemen and women will cost around £27 every minute.

Commodore Andrew Cameron, chief executive of Combat Stress, said: "A significant number of veterans who leave the services each year continue to relive the horrors they experienced on the front line."

Combat Stress has treated thousands of veterans of the battles Britain has been involved in over the years, including the recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

It will continue to do so in 2014 but requires plenty of donations if it is to keep up with the demand from departed members of the armed forces for mental health support.