Stroud District Council’s Armed Forces Champion group is marking Armed Forces Day (24 June) by launching a survey to find out more about the needs of veterans in the Stroud district.
The recently-formed group consists of elected councillors and members of staff with specialist skills, knowledge, and experience. Two of the group are veterans, one of which is also a serving Reservist.
“We recognise the contribution veterans and their families have made to our country and community and are committed to doing all we can to support them,” said Chair of Council and Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Doina Cornell.
“In order to best understand how to direct our efforts, we need to ask veterans themselves. It may be that some requests are not within our remit, however if that is the case we will signpost people to the relevant organisation.”
Cllr Loraine Patrick, Armed Forces Champion and veteran added:
“We are keen to build links with local veterans’ groups and services so we can build a network of specialist support that exists around the district.
“I urge all members of the armed forces community and their families to take part in our survey.”
Stroud District Council has signed the Armed Forces Covenant, a nationwide agreement between the armed forces community, the nation, and the government. The key principles of the covenant are that no member of the armed forces community should face disadvantage when accessing local services, and allows for special treatment to be given in some circumstances.
Armed Forces Champion group has pledged that SDC’s various housing services will guarantee a face-to-face interview for veterans, serving members of the armed forces and their families if requested and specialist training for front-line members of council staff is being arranged.
Further opportunities are being explored with the council’s Social Prescribing Link Worker who works with the Severn Health Primary Care Network, serving approximately 40,000 patients across five GP practices.
Veterans, members of the armed forces and their families can complete the survey online here https://www.stroud.gov.uk/af-consult or request a paper copy by post by phoning 01453 766321. It is not necessary to give your name, but you are welcome to do so.
The deadline for completed surveys is Monday 31 July. A summary of the responses will be published on the web page below; no names will be included.
The Armed Forces Day flag is being flown at Stroud District Council’s Ebley Mill HQ.
Armed Forces Day is a chance for people to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets. Armed Forces Day takes place on the last Saturday each June.
Further information for veterans can be found here https://www.stroud.gov.uk/community-and-living/armed-forces-community-covenant
Sign up for email alerts: https://www.stroud.gov.uk/apps/email-alerts
