Serving in the armed forces invariably means being outside for prolonged periods – often in cold or wet climates. This can lead to a non-freezing cold injury (NFCI), sometimes known as ‘trench foot’, or ‘cold weather injury’. Left untreated, NFCI can lead to permanent damage to nerves and blood vessels.

Cases range from mild to severe, with some injuries being so sensitive to cold that sufferers can’t work outside and may end up being medically discharged. NFCI is the most common form of injury suffered on military exercises. Many people don’t realise that the MoD, like any employer, has a duty of care to protect you from unnecessary NFCI by:

• Educating you in how to recognise and prevent the condition
• Equipping you with suitable boots and gloves fit for the conditions
• Limiting unnecessary exposure to wet or cold conditions
• Allowing you time to dry and warm up hands and feet
• Identifying and treating any signs of NFCI as soon as possible.

You’re on firm ground If you think you’ve suffered a non-freezing cold injury you might be entitled to compensation. It’s possible to claim even if you’ve been turned down for a payment under the AFCS or War Pension schemes. Both these no-fault schemes have very strict criteria, often resulting in smaller compensation payments or your claim being rejected, even though you may still be entitled to bring a civil claim.

Put your best foot forward NFCI can be debilitating and affect all aspects of life – yet it is easily avoidable. In military circles, people have known about the condition since World War I, but many sufferers prefer to remain silent, often out of loyalty towards their regiment or the MoD. Or perhaps they feel responsible, as it was their choice to enlist. Or maybe they don’t want to admit to suffering from the condition.

Help is at hand – how to make a claim Whether you’re a veteran or still serving, our highly experienced Military Services team will advise you for free on whether you have a civil claim for compensation. If we think you have a strong case, we’ll represent you on a no-win, no-fee basis. Plus, you can bring a civil claim at the same time as an AFCS or War Pension claim.

The Royal British Legion and Veterans Agency can help you apply for the AFCS or War Pension Scheme, or we can if you prefer. Either way, we always aim to achieve the best outcome for you, and to make the process as straightforward and simple as possible.

If you have an enquiry, get in touch through the link provided today.

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