What We Did…

We have reviewed the survey responses and have learned that Veterans are most likely to seek information on VAC programs and services from My VAC Account. We have also learned that family members and caregivers of Veterans rely on friends and family primarily for this information. To increase awareness of VAC programs and services for caregivers and families of Veterans, we have added the following links to available resources on My VAC Account to ensure information is readily available to those who need it:

Supports for families of Veterans

The following supports, with varying eligibility criteria, are available to families of Veterans:

• VAC Assistance Service (1-800 number)
• Veteran Family Program
• Family Peer Support (Operational Stress Injury Social Support)
• Caregiver Recognition Benefit
• Group health insurance (Public Service Health Care Plan)
• Caregiver Zone
• Operational Stress Injury Resource for Caregivers
• Vocational Assistance
• Career Transition Services
• Mental health services for families
• Mental health first aid for the Veteran community
• Pastoral Outreach Service

Supports for caregivers of Veterans

The following supports, with varying eligibility criteria, are available to caregivers of Veterans:

• VAC Assistance Service (1-800 number)
• Caregiver Recognition Benefit
• Caregiver Zone
• Operational Stress Injury Resource for Caregivers

In addition, we have learned that family members who perform caregiving may not always identify as a caregiver, and as a result, may not be accessing supports that are available to them. Clarity is needed in messaging regarding VAC supports for carers of Veterans.