Issue - meetings

Consideration was given to a report summarising the current position in terms of the Armed Forces Covenant Duty and seeking adoption of the action plan to ensure the duty is fully upheld. The Homes, Health and Wellbeing Team Manager explained that the Armed Forces Act 2021 placed a legal duty on specified public bodies to have due regard to the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant when exercising certain statutory functions in the fields of healthcare, education and housing. The Covenant Duty came into effect on 22 November 2022.

Members expressed their support for the Covenant and actions in place to enact the duties required of the Council. A Member of the Committee, whilst supporting the paper, commented that it was unfortunate that in today’s society there was a need for such duties to be written into law. This was recognised, however it was also noted that for those leaving the Armed Forces, there were pressures and circumstances experienced that were unique to them, and the Covenant sought to ensure full support was available.

A Member of the Committee enquired as to what was put in place by the Armed Forces to signpost and support those transitioning out of Service. It was explained that part of the Council’s duty was for information to be clear and accessible, and, based on the experiences of those who had approached the Council for support, it was clear the Armed Forces were sharing such information and signposting people to the appropriate services.

The Chairman thanked the Officer for the report and work undertaken, and echoed the comments of the Committee Members. He highlighted the strong associations between the Armed Forces and West Lindsey, and Lincolnshire as a whole, and, the paper having been moved and seconded, he took the vote. It was unanimously,

RESOLVED that:

a)    the Prosperous Communities Committee recognise the current position with regards to the Armed Forces Covenant Duty; and

b)    the action plan be adopted to ensure the covenant duty can be met by West Lindsey District Council; and

c)    the action plan be published to the Council’s website and the areas of due regard updated when actions are completed.