Reconfirming support for our Armed Forces

A pledge to continue supporting our armed forces has been signed by leader of Blaby District Council and local MPs.

Council Leader Councillor Ben Taylor, Chief Executive Julia Smith, Alberto Costa, MP for South Leicestershire and Peter Bedford, MP for Mid Leicestershire have put their names to the Armed Forces Covenant.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a UK national promise ensuring the armed forces community receives fair treatment, is not disadvantaged due to service and their sacrifices are recognised. It is upheld through government, local authorities, businesses and charities signing pledges.

The Covenant was originally signed by Blaby District Council leaders in 2018. The re-signing comes as the authority works to secure a Gold Award in the Defence Employers Recognition Scheme (DERS).

The DERS awards signify a further commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant and demonstrate being a truly ‘forces-friendly’ employer through tangible actions, not just pledges.

As part of its support of the Armed Forces, the Council hosts regular coffee mornings for veterans. It also raises awareness of the benefit that former service personnel bring to workforces.

Councillor Ben Taylor said: “Myself and Julia were proud to put our names to the Armed Forces Covenant. The re-signing reinforces the Council’s aim to ensure our armed forces community receives the necessary support across various aspects of life, including healthcare, housing, education and employment.

“I am confident the hard work we are doing to support former service personnel will help us achieve the coveted DERS Gold Award this year.

“We wanted to invite our local MPs to join us not only so they could demonstrate their commitment – especially with Peter being a member of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme – but also to strengthen our relationship and highlight the partnership working ongoing for the benefit of local residents.”

Councillor Ben Taylor
Leader of the Council