Council's work to support the Armed Forces continues to go from strength to strength

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council wants to build on its already "outstanding" commitment to the Armed Forces, a new report has revealed.

The Council first signed an Armed Forces Covenant in 2012, followed by signing newly updated versions in 2018 and 2020.

And a report brought forward to a Cabinet meeting on Thursday (November 17) showed how work to help the Armed Forces was maintained during 2021/22, despite the coronavirus pandemic.

As well as being awarded a 'Gold Award' from the Ministry of Defence, the Council supported the 100^th anniversary celebrations of the Stockton & Yarm Branch of the Royal British Legion.

Armed Forces Week was also marked virtually in 2021 due to lockdown restrictions, before in-person celebrations returned this year.

Attention now turns to how support for the Armed Forces Community will continue in 2022/23, with lots planned like working with the Armed Forces Careers Office in Middlesbrough to help recruitment.

Councillor Bob Cook, Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and the Borough's Armed Forces Champion, said: "We're extremely proud of our work to support the Armed Forces Community and we work with many different partners to ensure none of our residents are disadvantaged as a result of their or a family member's military service.

"It was a huge honour to receive the Gold Award for our outstanding work and it's important to now build on this over the next year.

"For instance, we have created a profile on the Forces Families Jobs website and promote Council vacancies to the families of those serving. To date, more than 300 jobs have been advertised on the site.

"We're also looking at supporting prisoners at Holme House Prison who are veterans by providing links with organisations who can help the veterans and their families whilst serving time in prison and as they prepare to re-join society.

"It's vital we never forget the sacrifices made by our Armed Forces to help keep us safe at home and abroad."

To find out more, visit the Council's Armed Forces web page.

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