Armed forces members and veterans in Perth and Kinross are being urged to seek support if suffering from trauma as a result of the recent Afghanistan crisis.
Perth and Kinross Council says it recognises that the current situation in the Middle East country may be “evoking difficult memories” for many of the local armed forces family who may have served or known loved ones during the conflict in the country.
US and other international troops began to leave Afghanistan in June, leading the Taliban to launch a rapid advance.
They seized control of the country, arriving in the capital city Kabul this week, bringing to a swift end almost 20 years of a US-led coalition’s presence in the country.
Fighters seized the presidential palace, with president Ashraf Ghani fleeing the country.
The takeover led to chaos at airports and international fears for the futures of people who do not manage to flee.
The scenes may bring back traumatic memories and mixed emotions for local veterans, but the council’s armed forces and veterans champion, councillor Chris Ahern, has offered help.
“The situation in Afghanistan has escalated quickly,” he said.
“I would urge any veteran, reservist or member of the armed forces family who may have a close connection to the country, either having served there themselves or through knowing someone who has, and is struggling with memories or trauma that this situation may be bringing, to reach out for the support that is there for you.
“As an armed forces covenant partner you can find information about support and advice for veterans on the council’s website at www.pkc.gov.uk/adviceforveterans or you can contact me directly.”
