The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.
The government is committed to supporting the armed forces community by working with a range of partners who have signed the covenant. The covenant is a national responsibility involving government, businesses, local authorities, charities and the public.
Elmbridge Borough Council signed up to the Armed Forces Community Covenant in October 2013 and now all councils across the UK are part of the scheme.
The covenant's 2 principles are that:
- the armed forces community should not face disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public and commercial services
- special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given most such as the injured and the bereaved
The covenant exists to redress the disadvantages that the armed forces community may face in comparison to other citizens, and to recognise sacrifices made.
The Armed Forces Covenant is supported by the community covenant and the corporate covenant. The community covenant encourages local communities to support the armed forces community in their area and promote public understanding and awareness. The corporate covenant is a public pledge from businesses and other organisations who wish to demonstrate their support for the armed forces community.
Contact and support
You can find support from the following organisations:
Veterans' Gateway: a single point of contact for veterans seeking advice and support
Veterans Support Association - 3rd Molesey Scout Hut, St. Peters Road, West Molesey, Surrey KT8 2QE
9am-4pm every Monday of each month.
Forces Families Jobs - an employment and training platform for spouses, partners and family members of service and Reserve UK military personnel.
For more information see the Armed Forces Covenant.