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I saw the lifelong consequences of battlefield wounds. Britain needs to rethink how it treats scars

16 0
29.10.2026

By Lieutenant General (Ret) Richard Nugee

Scars are too often dismissed as cosmetic – a mark left behind once an injury or operation has healed.

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But for millions of people, the reality is very different. Significant scarring can cause lifelong pain, restrict movement, affect mental health and require years of treatment, including repeated operations to alleviate the effects of scarring.

From 2016 to 2020, I held the position of Chief of Defence People in the British Armed Forces, where I was responsible for all policy relating to wounded, injured or sick military personnel and veterans. I have witnessed both the physical and psychological impact that scarring can have on people’s lives.  As we approach Remembrance Sunday, we are reminded of not only those who have died but the thousands of veterans living with traumatic........

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