Lancashire councils reaffirm commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community
A new document that shows how to make Lancashire the best place to live work and thrive for Armed Forces veterans and their families has been published.
Ahead of Armed Forces Day on June 24, the first edition of the Lancashire Armed Forces Covenant Guide has been produced by the Lancashire Armed Forces Covenant Hub, which brings together organisations from the public, private and charitable sectors.
The Hub is funded by the county council and works with all 15 Lancashire councils to raise awareness of the Armed Forces Covenant, while also encouraging public sector organisations and charities to work together in the delivery of services to the military community.
The Armed Force Covenant is a promise by the nation that the Armed Forces community should be treated fairly and face no disadvantage when accessing public and commercial services. The Armed Forces Covenant Duty also places a legal obligation on certain public bodies to ‘have due regard’ to the principles of the Covenant.
The Lancashire Armed Forces Covenant Guide describes what councils in Lancashire are doing to fulfil their promises under the Covenant. It also features contributions and information from the NHS, Lancashire Police, armed forces charities, central government, and Lancashire cadet forces and is completely funded through advertising.
County Councillor Alf Clempson, Lancashire County Council's Armed Forces and Veterans Champion, also contributed to the guide, which included being the author of introduction.
On Thursday 25 May, Cllr Clempson will be addressing councillors at the next Full Council meeting to raise awareness of the Lancashire Armed Forces Covenant Guide and to reaffirm Lancashire's commitment to delivering for the Armed Forces community.
Cllr Clempson said: "We are rightfully proud of the contributions Lancashire has made throughout its long and storied history – both to the Armed Forces and to the nation those forces are sworn to protect.
"The work being done by all the councils featured in the guide serves to honour that duty and sacrifice.
"That's why we want to be there for veterans and their families, especially those who need some help to live the best lives they can."
To view the Lancashire Armed Forces Covenant Guide visit www.lancsforcesdirectory.com and click on the E-book tab.