Chris said he is homeless by choice after serving as a Royal Marine Commando for 24 years
In 2019 A military veteran living in a makeshift shelter on a busy Belfast street said being outdoors helps with his PTSD.
Chris said he is homeless by choice after serving as a Royal Marine Commando for 24 years.
And has been nothing but complimentary of the local community, which he said has been very accepting of his decision to set up home with his dog Sasha on Bradbury Place three months ago.
He told Belfast Live: "I have PTSD but if I start taking the medication it's going to change me into someone I am not - I would rather do this.
"I don't like being indoors, I really don't like being enclosed. I would rather noise, confusion, meeting people and making them laugh and putting a smile on their faces.
Chris, who has now been homeless for seven years, said the Royal Marines were supportive following his PTSD diagnosis and did offer help.
Former Army officer and Ulster Unionist MLA Doug Beattie has long campaigned for better support for veterans.
He said: "There are people in Northern Ireland who served in the military who are now going through a mental health crisis and because of their security situations and their heightened awareness of PTSD, they are finding it hard to access help.
"That is why the UK government must put in bespoke measures in Northern Ireland, directed and funded by Westminster to deal with the ever increasing mental health problem of veterans in Northern Ireland."
If you require help please contact your local veterans Charities or access information on The Veterans Gateway
Former squaddie Darren Greenfield's death has sparked anger among veterans charities who say more must be done to look after ex-servicemen. This happened on the streets of Edinburgh.
"You're not in the Army Now,( Charities Information Site ) Northern Ireland.Email: admin@veteranservicesni.com
Veteran Services N.I. Charity Information site, aim is to signpost both Serving and retired members of the Armed Forces with practical help and advice with regards to Post Trauma Stress Disorder, (PTSD), War Pensions, benefits, housing, Medals, Funerals, and much more. It is Northern Ireland based, but is open to all Servicemen and women North and South. Please FOLLOW THIS LINK
