Supporting Our Servicemen

A motion setting up a charter for service personnel was unanimously passed at the January meeting of Council.

Proposed by Lib Dem councillor for West Gosforth Bill Shepherd, who is himself a former Naval Reservist, it committed the public sector in our City to consider the needs of returning servicemen, and for all the relevant agencies to work together to support ex-servicemen.

In his motion Bill said, "Council recognises the debt that the country owes to members of HM Armed Forces who have served this country in past and present conflicts. Sadly many ex-servicemen and women find themselves unable to reintegrate into civilian society in the way they would wish to. Ex-Service Personnel have a lot of skills and experience to offer society, yet too many have problems with their mental health, substance abuse and the criminal justice system."

Councillor Shepherd praised the work of other Councillors who have raised the issue of veterans' rights nationally including Councillor Lawrence Hunter from Lemington, himself another ex-serviceman who has led the way.

The Council will contact the leadership of the City's main public, private and third sector partner organisations to inform them of its decision to establish the Charter and to encourage our partners to make the same commitment.

Did you know?

The City Council website has a page devoted to help and advice for forces veterans?
You can view it here: http://www.newcastle.gov.uk/core.nsf/a/veterans?opendocument