Christmas Appeal - donate and help veterans with mental health problems

Andrew was just 18 when he joined the Navy and spent the next eight years risking his life for his country. During his time in service there were many dangerous situations where he risked his life. He could have died numerous times, but he never gave in. Instead getting home was the biggest threat to his life.

As the trauma of combat ripped his life apart, he had a breakdown and ended up sleeping rough in a desolate cargo container.

For years he felt angry, aggressive and alone. Unable to communicate with his family he worked himself into the ground - until he lost his family, his job and his home. The cargo container was cold, damp and noisy but it felt like a warship, and as Andrew hit rock bottom, it was the only place he felt he belonged.

It took Andrew more than 20 years to seek help, by which point he was sleeping rough. But after taking part in our six-week PTSD Intensive Treatment Programme, he's got he's life back. With a new home and a new partner, he says he feels hopeful again.