'Duty' to look after armed forces veterans

Thousands sign up for new ID cards

Councils across Devon have been urged to go into battle on behalf of local armed forces veterans.

County MPs Kevin Foster (Con, Torbay) and Johnny Mercer (Con, Plymouth Moor View) made the call in the House of Commons during a debate on the new veterans' ID Card.

A new online application system for the card has been used by nearly 3,000 former service personnel living in Devon.

The card, supported by six major charities, enables veterans to easily prove their status to the NHS, local councils and charities, enabling them to access support and services where needed.

Mr Mercer, who is the government minister for forces veterans, told the House: “I can’t emphasise enough that it is the nation’s duty to look after these people.

“We have armed forces champions in local authorities, and I want to see that role taken seriously.”

He said there are a number of ways veterans could seek help, including for health, housing and employment.

And, he went on: “It is incumbent on all of us in public life to understand what is available for veterans so that when we find one who is in need, they get the world-class help they deserve.”

Mr Foster said later: “The veterans’ card is a great initiative to not only give former personnel a formal recognition of their service, but also to ensure they can access vital services more easily. I would encourage all veterans to either apply online or ring the veteran helpline to get a form sent in the post.”

More information about the Veteran Card is at: www.gov.uk/veteran-card. Veterans who can't apply online should call 0808 1914 218.