It was an honour to attend the Cenotaph service on Remembrance Day in the presence of His Majesty the King. From early in the day I saw thousands of veterans arriving and forming up in what is a huge event in their calendar. Earlier I spoke to some Royal Navy veterans who served in the Falklands conflict and learned just how important it is for them to remember those who lost their lives but also to renew their comradeship with those with whom they served.
Remembrance Day is not just about veterans who served in previous conflicts but about supporting those who currently serve. That’s why it was a suitable time to announce the Governments Armed Forces Strategy. The needs of veterans have been well documented, but support has not always been forthcoming. To combat that the Government is setting up a number of hubs across the country to give better access to care and support – and backing it up with £27 million of new money. Support will be offered on health, housing and employment but also on general wellbeing, welfare and finances. More money will be available to reduce homelessness and invest in veteran specific NHS support. On top of that the Government is taking real action on renewing forces accommodation to genuinely provide homes fit for heroes.
We owe our veterans a huge debt and North Tyneside knows that well with almost nine thousand people who have previously served in the UK armed forces. They served our country; it is important their needs are served.