Members of the Armed Forces and their families living in East Yorkshire will be further supported by the new legislation for the Armed Forces Covenant.
In the area of healthcare, education, and housing, the new Armed Forces Covenant Duty, which came into force on 22 November, requires relevant public sector bodies to demonstrate ‘due regard’ for the Armed Forces community and the Covenant principles.
Councillor David Elvidge, Armed Forces Member Champion, said:
“I welcome the introduction of the new Duty and see this as a positive move forward for the way in which public bodies provide support to the whole Armed Forces community.
“In particular, I support the clarity given in defining relevant family members which recognises the world we live in today and I hope this makes it as inclusive as possible so that all those affected by military service get the help and support they need.”
As part of the Armed Forces Covenant, the nation promises to treat those who serve or have served in the military, and their families, fairly and not to discriminate in access to goods and services offered by the government and the private sector.
To prevent any disadvantages the Armed Forces Community faces and to develop a deeper understanding of the unique obligations and circumstances of serving and former members of the Armed Forces and their families, the Armed Forces Covenant is being further incorporated into law, as part of the Armed Forces Act 2021.
Through this legislation, public bodies will be made aware of the impact that Service life can have on the Armed Forces community, as well as the disadvantages that can occur when members of the community seek to access key local services.
East Riding of Yorkshire Council has developed a position statement and action plan in preparation for this legislation, which highlights areas that are already being addressed and identifies areas that require further attention. A copy of this can be found on the Armed Forces webpage of the council.
A wide range of local support is available for Armed Forces families in these areas, so staff in these areas will also undergo training to further their understanding of the Duty.
