Mother calls for more support for former soldiers after the death of her son

The mother of a former soldier from Greater Manchester who took his own life during lockdown says he's been badly let down.

Dean Corbett from Trafford had struggled with his mental health since leaving the army. 

The Ministry of Defence have said that any veteran's death is a tragedy and that change is underway.

But his mum, Karen Hessing, says he was offered very little support, even though he'd served two tours in Afghanistan.

  • Karen Hessing, Dean's mother.

She added that she felt let down by the MOD saying: "You let Dean down - you let a lot of soldiers down.

"Action needs to be taken. If they say you need decompression you should be given it. I just think there should be more help out there for the boys."

The Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Johnny Mercer MP, said that support is out there for veterans, but admitted that at times it can be challenging to access.

Meanwhile, a special event is being held in Salford to mark World Suicide Prevention Day at 7pm this evening.

Organisers say that during the pandemic many bereaved by suicide have been denied the extra support they need.

A vigil is being screened and live-streamed to remember those who've taken their own life.

If you are struggling with your mental health, you can find support at the following websites: