Wirral council pledges support for Armed Forces (From Wirral Globe)

Wirral council pledges support for Armed Forces

11:30am Wednesday 4th July 2012 in News By Craig Manning

A NEW pledge of support for Wirral servicemen and their families has been signed this week.

The Armed Forces Community Covenant affirms the commitment by public and voluntary services in Wirral to supporting service personnel and their families, and ex-members of the Forces.

This includes providing help with education, housing and health.

It was signed by Wirral council leader, Phil Davies, mayor, Cllr Gerry Ellis, representatives of the Armed Forces, and organisations representing public, voluntary and business sectors across the borough.

Official guests attending included Lt Col W R Busby, Commander of Merseyside Garrison, who was deputising for Brigade Commander, Wing Commander S R Chaskin OBE, RAF, and Commander P J Russ RNR.

Also present were representatives from the various local housing associations, NHS Wirral, and - from service-related charities - Combat Stress, the Royal British Legion and the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association.

Council leader Phil Davies said: "Wirral has always been proud of its association with the Armed Forces.

"I think I speak for everyone when I say that residents are deeply grateful to everybody in the Services, and their families, for their commitment, service and sacrifice."

Mayor, Cllr Gerry Ellis, said: "In signing this new covenant, we affirm our support for all the men and women who sacrifice their civilian freedoms, face danger and, sometimes, suffer serious injury or death as a result of their duty.

"We also acknowledge our debt to their families."

The council already offers help for members of the Armed Forces and their families and opened its own Wirral Veterans Contact Centre last year.

The unit support past and present members of the Armed Forces, Merchant Navy, and their families.

Last week flags were flown on many Council buildings to show support for Armed Forces Day.

Council staff and the public also joined ex members of the Armed Forces and Merchant Navy when the flag was raised outside Wallasey Town Hall on June 25.