Op NOVA (Operation NOVA) is a UK-wide support programme for military veterans who are in contact with the criminal justice system. Its purpose is to help ex‑service personnel stabilise their lives, address underlying issues, and reduce the risk of re‑offending. [gov.uk]
What Op NOVA is
Op NOVA is a dedicated support pathway delivered by the Forces Employment Charity and commissioned by NHS England. It provides practical and emotional support to veterans who are:
- at risk of arrest,
- arrested or in police custody,
- in prison, or
- recently released from prison.
Who it is for
Op NOVA supports anyone who has served at least one day in the UK Armed Forces (regular or reserve). In England, veterans are eligible if they live there; related provision also exists in Scotland (NOVA Scotland) and Wales (NOVA Wales).
What support Op NOVA provides
Each veteran is assigned a specialist caseworker, many of whom have military or justice‑sector experience. Support is tailored following a needs assessment and can include help with:
- mental health and wellbeing (including referral to NHS veteran services such as Op COURAGE),
- housing and accommodation,
- employment, training, and education,
- debt and financial issues,
- substance misuse (alcohol or drugs),
- family, relationships, and community reintegration.
- Support is available before custody, during custody, and after release, and can be delivered face‑to‑face or remotely.
How veterans access Op NOVA
Veterans can:
- self‑refer, or
- be referred by police, probation, prison staff, NHS services, or charities.
Contact details published by the service include:
- Phone: 0800 917 7299
- Email: opnova@forcesemployment.org.uk
- Website: Forces Employment Charity – Op NOVA [britishlegion.org.uk]
Overall aim
Op NOVA’s stated aim is to help veterans live stable, law‑abiding lives by addressing the root causes of offending and ensuring access to appropriate health, housing, and employment support.