Outside body

The Borough Council signed an Armed Forces Covenant in 2013, in partnership with Royal British Legion Industries, Aylesford and 220 Medical Squadron.  The principles of the Covenant aim to ensure that the Armed Forces Community should:

·       Not suffer disadvantage compared to other citizens as a result of their service;

·       Receive equality of outcomes; and

·       Receive special treatment where appropriate.

The Covenant aims to integrate Service life with civilian life. It encourages all parties within a community to offer support to the local Armed Forces, making it easier for Service personnel, families, and veterans to access help and support services available from the MOD, from statutory providers and from the voluntary sector.

·       Armed Forces Champions

It was recommended that Local Authorities annually appoint an Armed Forces Champion to raise the profile and needs of the Armed Forces community. The guidance suggested that some Armed Forces experience would be an advantage for this role.

The Borough Councils Armed Forces Champions (Cllr Dave Davis and Cllr Steve Hammond) have a background of many years military experience and it was felt that their combined experience would will be fundamental in supporting the Armed Forces community in Tonbridge and Malling.

To support this role the Council’s Policy, Scrutiny and Communities Manager

is the nominated Armed Forces Covenant Lead Officer.