Councils have pledged to support Service and ex-Service people in their communities by signing up to a Community Covenant.
By July 2014, all councils will have signed up to the Covenant helping Service and ex-Service people, and their families, with matters such as housing, employment and school places.
Sir Merrick Cockell, chairman of the Local Government Association, said: ‘As Honorary Squadron Colonel of 41 (PLK) Signals Squadron, it is really encouraging that all councils will have signed up to the Community Covenant by July this year. It is a clear sign of how committed councils are to promoting the work of the armed forces and ensuring that men and women who selflessly dedicate their careers to protecting our country can access the services they need.
‘There are many examples all around the country of what councils are doing to help service people settle in their communities and support a smooth transition into civilian life.’
Chris Simpkins, Director General of The Royal British Legion, said: ‘With the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan, the rebasing of troops from Germany and the increasing number of Reservists expected in society, support from local authorities and local communities is more important than ever.
‘We are delighted then that all councils in England and Wales will have signed the Community Covenant by July and are starting to put in place tangible measures to help meet this new challenge.’
Armed Forces Day takes place on 28 June this year.
