Veterans: Disadvantaged
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what progress he has made on ensuring that no veteran is disadvantaged as a result of military service.
Answered by Mr Calvin Bailey
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation to support our Armed Forces community. The promise is to ensure that those who serve and have served, along with their families and the bereaved, are treated fairly.
In June 2025, the Prime Minister unveiled new plans ensuring that, for the first time, every government department will be required to give ‘due regard’ to the Armed Forces Covenant when shaping policies and making decisions, taking into account the distinct experiences and needs of the Armed Forces community. The Armed Forces Bill, through which this change is being made, continues its passage through Parliament. Having passed through its committee stage, it is currently moving through the House of Commons.
In addition, VALOUR is a £50 Million funded programme, which will give veterans across the UK easier access to the essential care and support available to them. VALOUR Recognised Centres will facilitate access to multiple services for veterans, and will connect local, regional, and national services. A network of VALOUR Field Officers will bring together charities, service providers, and local government to improve collaboration and coordination, enabling data-driven policy and service development. Finally, a VALOUR HQ, within the Ministry of Defence, will gather data and insight, working with policy and research teams to ensure services are designed to meet local needs.
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