Issue - meetings

To receive the Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report.

The Cabinet Member for Inclusion, Engagement, Equalities & Civic Pride presented the report of the Director: Policy & Governance. The report provided an update on the work that had taken place around meeting the Council’s commitments to the Armed Forces Covenant and in support of our Armed Forces community during 2022-2023.

As a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, Telford and Wrekin Council was required to uphold a commitment to support the armed forces community. The Council has broadened their outreach activities through partnership working to include the Council's Armed Forces Staff Network, Veterans' Cafes in Dawley, Madeley and a new café to launch in Donnington, the Models for Heroes Group and a Veterans Football Club which meets weekly at AFC Telford United. The Council had also been recognised by the Ministry of Defence as a Gold Employer for veterans.

Cabinet Members stated that it was important to recognise the contribution of veterans and armed forces personnel and to be committed to supporting them.

The Leader of the Conservative Group welcomed the report and commended the work of the Council.

The Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group welcomed the report and noted the work to support the armed forces.

RESOLVED - that:

a)    The progress made to develop the Council's "offer" to the Borough's Armed Forces Community be noted

b)    The proposed approach to enhancing that offer as set out in paragraphs 5.1 to 5.5 of the report be endorsed.

Councillors Richard Overton and Lee Carter left the meeting at this point.