Meeting documents

To consider the report.

The Council noted the report  and commended the Partnership on the positive contribution and difference they have made to Somerset and the Armed Forces.

Councillor Rod Williams introduced the Annual report of the Armed Forces Covenant Partnership. The Report updated the Council on the Somerset Armed Forces Covenant (SAFC) Partnership since the last Annual Report to Full Council in November 2020. The purpose of the SAFC Partnership was to deliver the Armed Forces Covenant in Somerset and Somerset County Council (SCC) had led the Partnership. The definition of the Armed Forces Covenant is : -

‘The Covenant is a promise from the nation to those who serve. It says we will do all we can to ensure they are treated fairly and not disadvantaged in their day-to-day lives. This includes offering injured servicemen and women, and bereaved families, extra support where appropriate.’

The Covenant, a Government initiative, had been designed to ensure that members of the Armed Forces community were not disadvantaged compared to members of the civilian community. Delivery of the Covenant is aimed at four groups of beneficiaries: regulars, reservists, veterans, and their immediate families.

Councillor Leigh Redman thanked Councillor Rod Williams for the report and recorded how pleased he was to see so many Councillors participating in Remembrance Day events across the County.

Councillor David Fothergill, Leader of the Council, thanked Councillor Rod Williams for all the work he had undertaken on behalf of the Armed Forces community in Somerset. Councillor Mark Healey agreed and said he too appreciated the dedication shown by Councillor Rod Williams.

The Council noted the report and commended the Armed Forces Covenant Partnership on the positive contribution and difference they have made to Somerset and the Armed Forces.