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The Welsh Government’s Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report 2018
Presented voluntarily to the National Assembly for Wales pursuant to Standing Order 15.2 of the Standing Orders of the National Assembly for Wales 02 50
Her Majesty’s Government
– and –
All those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces of the Crown and their Families.
The first duty of Government is the defence of the realm. Our Armed Forces fulfil that responsibility on behalf of the Government, sacrificing some civilian freedoms, facing danger and, sometimes, suffering serious injury or death as a result of their duty.
Families also play a vital role in supporting the operational effectiveness of our Armed Forces. In return, the whole nation has a moral obligation to the members of the Naval Service, the Army and the Royal Air Force, together with their families.
They deserve our respect and support, and fair treatment.
Those who serve in the Armed Forces, whether Regular or Reserve, those who have served in the past, and their families, should face no disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public and commercial services.
Special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given the most such as the injured and the bereaved.
This obligation involves the whole of society:
it includes voluntary and charitable bodies, private organisations, and the actions of individuals in supporting the Armed Forces. Recognising those who have performed military duty unites the country and demonstrates the value of their contribution.
This has no greater expression than in upholding this Covenant.
WG37265 © Crown copyright 2019 Print ISBN: 978-1-83876-370-1 Digital ISBN: 978-1-83876-368-8 03 50
Contents
03 Foreword
05 Introduction
07 Observations – Feedback from Expert Group members
10 Executive Summary
12 Summary of Delivery
15 Governance
19 Health & Wellbeing
25 Education & Skills
29 Housing
33 Benefits & Finance
37 Support on return to Civilian Life
43 Employment & Skills
47 Commemoration
49 What we will do
50 Closing Words 04 50
Foreword
2018 was a significant year They gave their lives for our todays. of commemorative events The Welsh Government’s Cymru’n recognising and honouring our Cofio programme ensures their stories, sacrifices and suffering are told and not Armed Forces. forgotten. We saw the culmination of the centenary Of course, we must remember the many of the ending of the First World War with conflicts that followed, where Welsh men numerous events taking place across and women served, supported by their Wales and the UK to mark this historic families. We must never forget their occasion. sacrifices. We also marked the centenary of the I also pay tribute to our current Serving formation of the RAF and I am delighted men and women, and the valuable that a Welshman, David Lloyd George, the contribution of their families. They face Prime Minister at the time, was at the numerous personal challenges due to forefront of its inception. the nature of their work defending our It was said at the time that the nations’ freedom and security; they First World War would be the war to end deserve our support. all wars, but sadly, as we know too well, 2018 also saw Wales host a very that was not to be. The impact of the successful National Armed Forces Day conflict, not only on the generation who which took place in Llandudno. fought, but also those on the home front, would last for generations to come. The Welsh Government played a part in ensuring members of the public came together to show our appreciation and gratitude for our Serving, ex-Service personnel and Reservists.
Of course, we must remember the many conflicts that followed, where Welsh men and women served, supported by their families. We must never forget their sacrifices. 05 50
There has been tremendous progress I would like to pay tribute to all the service across Wales in providing services and providers and professionals across the support for our Armed Forces community, public, private and charitable sectors in and we hope this report will be a Wales who support our Armed Forces testament to that progress. community. However, there is more we can do, and As a Government we remain committed more we will do to ensure our Armed to providing services and support for Forces community receive the recognition, this community, and we will continue to support and services they need. work in partnership across these sectors to ensure this community receives that I am pleased that the public, private support. and third sectors in Wales continue to promote the Armed Forces Covenant. The huge amount of partnership work in place enforces the ethos that we should all work together to support and honour the Armed Forces community. We have some good examples in Wales, including our Employment Pathway which provides information and advice on securing employment, and an Employers’ Toolkit, which helps employers recognise the talent and skills amongst our Armed Forces Community. These are key examples of what can be Julie James AM achieved when working collaboratively for Minister for Housing and mutual benefits. Local Government
As a Government we remain committed to provide services and support for this community, and we will continue to work in partnership across these sectors to ensure this community receives that support. 06 50
Introduction The Welsh Government recognises At the forefront of this has been the work that the return to civilian life of the Armed Forces Expert Group. for some Service personnel and Unique to Wales, it provides a collective voice and platform to identify and deliver their families can be difficult for a services for this community. number of reasons. A tremendous amount of progress has That is why when the Armed Forces been made over the last few years. Covenant was introduced in 2011 Working closely with the Armed Forces the Welsh Government signed up to its Expert Group we have delivered on key principles to provide Serving personnel, areas, including a Housing Pathway and veterans and their families with the Code of Guidance for Local Authorities support they require, and ensure they on the Allocation of Accommodation are not disadvantaged compared to other and Homelessness. This provides early citizens in the provision of services in assistance to veterans at risk of becoming recognition of the sacrifices they have homeless. made. Recognising that Service children can In response to the Armed Forces face specific challenges as a result Covenant the Welsh Government of deployment a bespoke fund was published our Package of Support for launched to provide them with additional the Armed Forces community which educational support. sets out the services available as well as signposting to support from other These are only a few examples of organisations. the progress and support we have implemented. In 2016 following progress in the delivery of additional services and support To further strengthen the support we we reviewed our Package of Support provide the Welsh Government has over and published our Welcome to Wales the winter months been carrying out a document for Service personnel and their Scoping Exercise to identify any gaps in families being posted to live in Wales. service delivery for veterans and their families.
To further strengthen the support we provide the Welsh Government has over the winter months been carrying out a Scoping Exercise to identify any gaps in service delivery for veterans and their families. 07 24
Introduction Findings from this exercise and from the I am pleased to publish this Annual Report Map of Need project have recently been in collaboration with the Armed Forces reported to the Armed Forces Expert Expert Group. Group and these findings will be reflected in future service provision. It sets out progress to date on the delivery of our commitments and Moving forward, in collaboration with recommendations for future areas for the UK Government and the Ministerial development. Covenant and Veterans Board, we will implement the new Veterans’ Strategy, recognising delivery will look different in each part of the country. However, in signing up to this Strategy, all parts of the UK are committed to achieving a shared Vision and Principles and the best outcomes for our Veterans. The Welsh Government remains totally committed to providing services and support that meets the need of our Armed Forces community, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who provide services and support for this Hannah Blythyn AM community and who have contributed to Deputy Minister for Housing and this report. Local Government
The Welsh Government remains totally committed to providing services and support that meets the need of our Armed Forces community, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who provide services and support for this community and who have contributed to this report. 08 50
Observation Feedback from the Armed Forces Expert Group Members The Expert Group members welcome the co-ordination of a Government led Armed Forces community Expert Group, to ensure Wales draws together the different agencies and sectors with our Armed Forces to focus on discharging our collective Armed Forces Covenant commitments. The Expert Group whole-heartedly Members are pleased that the importance welcome the introduction of an Annual of education is raised with a commitment Report on the Armed Forces Covenant by to changing the PLASC to recognise the Welsh Government. Service children, this is crucial in targeting the available support and resources where This annual report will be vital in it is needed. celebrating progress as well as identifying gaps in government services for the The introduction of the Supporting Service Armed Forces Community, including Children in Wales Fund is very welcomed. Armed Forces families. Consideration of the introduction of a Service Pupil Premium in Wales is This comprehensive first annual report recommended. does justice to the excellent relationship between Welsh society and the Armed The Welsh Government commitment to roll Forces community including Reservists, out the 30 hours a week free childcare for especially the structure given to it by the working parents of 3 and 4 year olds to all Armed Forces Covenant. Local Authorities has been well received, and will benefit Armed Forces spouses It records the great progress that has been wishing to return to work. made and the work that will go forward. There is a lot of evidence within the Commitment by the Welsh Government to report of positive collaborative practice the Housing Pathway is welcomed. between organisations who are devolved, non-devolved, and voluntary sector There is recognition that housing remains organisations. a pressure point with shortage of one bed accommodation which many ex-Service In relation to Health and Well Being personnel require, which needs to be we welcome the Welsh Government’s addressed. commitment to the future of Veterans NHS Wales (VHNSW). VNHSW has been The commitment by the Welsh very successful in reducing waiting times Government to review the Code of for patients in recent years and we hope Guidance for Housing Allocations and to see that trend continue. Homelessness is welcomed as is the inclusion of Armed Forces service during We recognise that inconsistencies remain the annual rough sleeper count, though in the delivery of Priority NHS Treatment work to share this information with across Wales, and the focus that this will third sector partners could support the give to make improvements. developments needs to make necessary progress. 09 50
The Framework to support positive change The four main “asks” of the published by the Welsh Government and Expert Group are: HMPPS in Wales is a great example of this, as is SToMP. »» Priority Treatment – get the knowledge and understanding of this correct across There is a first-class body of policy in the sector (from a health but also a Wales that provides support to Serving veterans’ perspective). personnel and their families, to Reservists, to Service leavers and to Veterans. »» Supporting those that have given the most including meeting the needs of Support on returning to civilian life is an wounded veterans with through life important area of focus. support. The impact Armed Forces Liaison Officers »» AFLOs – they are a great resource (AFLO) on delivery of services is being and having an impact – this needs to observed and we welcome the Welsh be seen as a spring board of better Government’s commitment to them. understanding of Covenant across Local Authorities – they have provided tools The Expert Group members welcome and and knowledge and need embedding endorse the Employment Pathway and across Wales. Employers’ Toolkit. »» To amend PLASC data.
We do have the ability to get things done in Wales and the Armed Forces Expert Group does help achieve this. We thank the Welsh Government for facilitating agencies to collectively work together to make improvements. 10 50
Executive Summary Delivering for our Armed Forces Community Overview We have published for consultation a cross-government strategy on loneliness This is our first Armed Forces Covenant and isolation; veterans have been Annual Report. This report sets out included in this work. We have worked in the progress we have made in Wales in partnership with the Royal British Legion delivering services and support for our and NHS to raise awareness of Priority Armed Forces community, in collaboration Treatment for veterans who qualify for with our key partners. There has been this, and continued funding free swimming good progress however, we realise there is for Serving and ex-Service personnel to more to do, and more we will do. provide them with an environment to Our Scoping Exercise to identify any come together to support their well-being. gaps in service delivery and the Map of Need project, recently undertaken by Education Northumbria University to signpost quality The Welsh Government recognises the assured services available to veterans particular challenges that can face the across the UK, will help identify where we children of Service personnel and as need to focus our efforts moving forward. a result a bespoke fund of £250k was Working in partnership with the Armed launched in 2018 to provide educational Forces Expert Group will enable us to support for these children. This enabled successfully deliver services and support 27 schools across Wales to fund initiatives for our Armed Forces community. to support their well-being. Highlights of what we have done The Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018 Health and wellbeing received Royal Assent in December 2018. Improving mental health and well-being This makes provision for a new statutory continues to be a priority for the Welsh framework for supporting children, Government. We have continued to including Service children, with additional provide funding of approximately £700k learning needs. per annum for Veterans NHS Wales, which We have provided approximately £233k in is a unique service in Wales to ensure the academic year 2017/18 through our veterans with mental health issues receive Further and Higher Education Scheme, the support they need. enabling Service leavers and veterans Veterans NHS Wales has led on research across Wales to benefit from Further into Modular Motion-assisted Memory and Higher education, improving their Desensitisation and Reconsolidation, confidence, education and employment which is investigating whether this ‘virtual opportunities. reality’ therapy can reduce symptoms of PTSD in treatment resistant veterans. Housing We have also provided new mental health We are aware some veterans may struggle investment in initiatives to prevent and to secure housing and we published a reduce suicide. Housing Pathway to provide information and options to address housing needs 11 50
of Service leavers, veterans, and their Employment families. To complement the Pathway, Employment plays a pivotal role to a advice cards and leaflets for ex-Service successful transition to civilian life and personnel, who are sadly sleeping rough, we recognise some Service leavers and were produced providing important veterans may require additional support information about access to housing, as to secure employment. Working with well as a wide range of other services that key partners during 2018, the Welsh are available. Government published an Employment The Welsh Government has been Pathway and an Employers’ Toolkit. supportive of the partnership between, The former provides information and First Choice Housing and Wrexham County clarity on employment options available, Borough Council in the development of whilst the Employers’ Toolkit provides Tˆy Ryan, a self-build scheme providing clear guidance for employers on the homes for veterans who participate in added benefits of employing ex-Service the build, acquiring a range of skills and personnel. qualifications in the process. Commemoration Support on returning to Civilian Life Wales has a proud history of military tradition and we continue to honour the Recognising the valuable work the Armed past and the present. Forces Liaison Officers were delivering in supporting the Armed Forces community In 2018, the Welsh Government was within Local Authorities across Wales, the pleased to provide funding of £185k in Welsh Government has agreed to support support of National Armed Forces Day in their posts for a further two years, with a Llandudno. funding package of £500k. The Welsh Government has provided The SToMP (Supporting the Transition £271k to extend the Cymru’n Cofio of Military Personnel) project has programme until the end of March 2020 to implemented its Veterans Pathway in cover Armistice commemorations and the prisons across Wales. creation of a digital legacy. The Pathway includes identification, The Welsh Government also provides recording and signposting stages, with annual support for Armed Forces Days ex- Service personnel, where appropriate, in Wales. being transferred to HMP Parc and HMP Berwyn’s dedicated ex-Service personnel units. Wales has benefitted by securing £2.14m from the Covenant Trust Fund for projects to support the Armed Forces community, providing an opportunity to provide additional bespoke services and support for this community. 12 50
Summary of Delivery Governance »» The Welsh Government has established »» We have introduced and launched a a Framework for reporting and newly designed electronic poster to be communicating good practice and issues printed and displayed in GP surgeries relating to the Armed Forces community. to remind GPs of veterans’ Covenant We have also established metrics healthcare priority. in delivery of services for veterans in mental health, substance misuse »» We have worked with all Local Health and prosthetics. Board Armed Forces Champions to support and promote veterans’ healthcare. Health and Well-being »» We have continued to provide »» We have provided approximately approximately £700k per annum for £930K in funding from 2013 to support Veterans NHS Wales which includes veterans requiring prosthetics. research into Modular Motion- assisted Memory Desensitisation Education and Reconsolidation. »» We introduced the Supporting Service »» We have made an additional £20m Children in Wales Fund in 2018/19 funding available to Health Boards to to support the well-being of Service improve all mental health services, children. Approximately £250k was including those for veterans. awarded during 2018/19, which provided full or partial funding for »» We will provide an additional £500k a 27 successful bids. year to be invested in specific national and regional approaches to tackle »» The Additional Learning Needs and suicide and self-harm prevention. Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018, makes provision for a new statutory »» Provided services and support to 308 framework for supporting children, veterans during 2016/17 to receive including Service children with additional treatment after struggling with learning needs (ALN). substance misuse. »» We have provided approximately £233k »» We have committed to fund free in the academic year 2017/18 through swimming for Serving personnel and our Further and Higher Education veterans until 2021 to support their Scheme to support Service leavers and health and well-being. veterans gain qualifications. »» We have provided £40k for Change Step »» Funding for the Supporting Service to continue their mentoring service for Children in Education (SSCE) Cymru veterans. Project for 2019. »» The Welsh Health Specialised Services Commission has provided £120k between 2016 and 2018 to support the Armed Forces Fast Track Pathway enabling Serving personnel to return to duty quicker. 13 50
Housing Support on returning to Civilian Life »» Published a Housing Pathway which »» We have agreed to fund Armed Forces gives information and signposting to Liaison officers across Wales for a support, and options available to ex further two years, with a funding Service personnel and their families. package of £500k. »» Supported Tˆy Ryan a self-build scheme »» Working with key partners during 2018, targeted at veterans gaining skills and the Welsh Government published an qualifications during the build. Employment Pathway and an This has provided homes for veterans Employers’ Toolkit. and their families who have been involved in the build. »» The Welsh Government has fully supported the SToMP project which »» Working with the Gwent Armed Forces provides a Veterans Pathway in prisons Liaison Officer, Local Authorities in the across Wales, helping veterans access area have amended their housing policy support and rehabilitation prior to, and to take account of time served in the on discharge from prison. Armed Forces for inclusion on housing waiting lists.
Benefits »» In 2017 we acted on the RBL Insult to Injury campaign to introduce a full disregard of all Armed Forces compensation payments when assessing social care needs. »» The Welsh Government financed a promotion campaign on the benefits of possessing a Defence Privilege Card. The card provides discounts on retail and leisure and can be used to access free swimming in Wales for veterans and Serving members of the Armed Forces. 14 50 15 50
Governance How we work to deliver the Armed Forces Covenant in Wales The Welsh Government is committed to upholding the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant to ensure that no members of the Armed Forces community are disadvantaged as a result of their service, and that special consideration is given to those who have given the most, such as the injured or bereaved. Working closely with our partners – »» Regional and Local Authority Armed the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the Forces Fora organised regionally and at Tri-Services, Local Authorities, Local Authority level, these groups bring Local Health Boards, military charities together Local Government, health, the and organisations supporting the Military, statutory agencies and Service Armed Forces community – our aim is charities to examine key issues, identify to ensure the provision of efficient and best practice, coordinate services and effective services that meet the varying highlight areas for further consideration needs of this community. at an all-Wales level. The Welsh Government implemented »» Local issues are captured through Local structures to identify key issues and Fora and the appointment of Armed take action, share information and best Forces Liaison Officers (AFLO) across practice, and ensure we are hearing the Wales, ensuring Covenant guidelines collective voices of the Armed Forces and services are embedded within Local community in Wales. Authorities. The AFLOs are also key members of the Armed Forces Network »» The Armed Forces Expert Group and the Regional and Local Authority is chaired by the Deputy Minister Armed Forces Fora. for Housing and Local Government supported by the Welsh Government’s The Welsh Government also recognises Armed Forces Advocate. Meeting the value in wide engagement with bi-annually its members provide a our partners and the Armed Forces strategic voice on behalf of the community. Held annually, our Armed Armed Forces community in Wales, Forces Covenant Conference attracts considering key issues and collective a diverse audience from across Wales. methods of resolving these. It provides an opportunity for Local »» Chaired by the Welsh Local Government Authority and Local Health Board Armed Association and meeting twice yearly Forces Champions, Third Sector, Ministry the Armed Forces Network considers of Defence, the Family Federations, as well issues of local and regional interest to as many others with an interest in Armed the Armed Forces community. The group Forces issues to discuss new initiatives, comprises of representatives of Local share good practice and consider Authorities and other organisations opportunities for further collaboration. with an interest in the Armed Forces community. Through a nominated representative, issues raised are shared with the Armed Forces Expert Group. 16 50
Attendance at the all-Wales Service The Welsh Government Minister with charities meeting enables us to share responsibility for the Armed Forces information and good practice and discuss community attends the Ministerial key issues with organisations supporting Covenant and Veterans Board, with veterans and their families. a senior official attending the UK Government Armed Forces Covenant Our framework for sharing good practice, Reference Group to ensure good practice gathering a Wales and UK wide perspective and issues relating to the Armed Forces and engagement to identify issues is community are shared. captured in the table below: We work with partners across the UK to ensure we coordinate policies but also reflect the differing situations across Wales and other parts of the UK.
REGIONAL WALES UK LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL
Armed Forces Expert Group
Local Authority Armed Fora Forces Annual Conference
Cross Party Covenant Group on Armed Reference Forces & Group Ministerial Armed Cadets Covenant Forces & Veterans Liaison Board Officers Covenant Armed Forces Trust and Veterans Fund Champions Meeting
WLGA Regional Network Fora
All Wales Charity Meeting 17 50
Improving Data and Evidence We continue to work with Forces in Mind Trust, Public Health Wales and Universities We recognise we do not have a coherent to establish a more informed picture of picture of the numbers of the Armed the support needs of the Armed Forces Forces community based in Wales, community in Wales. however the Royal British Legion’s Household Survey1 estimates there are approximately 385,000 members of this Engagement – Hearing from community living in Wales. veterans and families We have supported the Royal British As part of our Scoping Exercise to identify Legion’s campaign for the inclusion of gaps in services for veterans and families, questions in the next UK census in 2021 from October 2018 to February 2019 on Service in the Armed Forces. we engaged with veterans, families and support providers to hear about their This will improve information on the size experiences and what they perceive as of the Armed Forces community at a local gaps in services and how they can be and national level, ensuring resources can addressed. be targeted appropriately.
AC E E E TS E GAGE E T
AC GR U D 7 e themes
Benefits and 1,007 T E REA D W 9.4% 40 40+ 250 12.9% 77.7%
1. Royal British Legion’s Household Survey 2016 18 50 19 50
Health and Wellbeing Some Armed Forces personnel may return from conflict with complex healthcare needs, in particular mental health issues, which may not surface until they have left the Armed Forces. We are continuously working to ensure healthcare provision meets the needs of those who require support and services. Improving health, mental health, The Talk to Me 2 Strategy has led to an well-being and preventing suicide, increased focus on multiagency working to continue to be priorities for the Welsh prevent suicide, with plans established in Government. Our mental health strategy all areas of Wales. ‘Together for Mental Health’ is committed to continue support for Veterans NHS This will be supported by an additional Wales. We will target new mental health £500,000 a year to be invested in specific investment in initiatives to prevent and national and regional approaches to tackle reduce suicide rates in Wales. suicide and self-harm prevention.
AC E E E TS EA T WE E G ETERA S S 210 WA ES £685K 3,500 2014 2019 £927K 2010 201 £120K 50% treatments after £500K £685K 2016 2018 £500K 308 114 2018 15 20 50
Veterans NHS Wales VNHSW, in partnership with Cardiff University, is leading research into 3MDR The Welsh Government provides (Modular Motion-assisted Memory approximately £700,000 annually to Desensitisation and Reconsolidation) Veterans NHS Wales (VNHSW) enabling Therapy, which is investigating whether the service to deliver evidence-based ‘virtual reality’ therapy with the aid of a treatment for service-related mental treadmill can reduce symptoms of PTSD health conditions. in treatment-resistant military veterans. The service – the only fully coordinated 42 veterans in Wales, with treatment- national service in the UK – employs resistant PTSD are taking part. therapists across all Local Health Boards This cutting-edge research trial will finish to deliver treatment and support to treating veterans during summer 2019. improve the mental health and wellbeing Results will be analysed by academics at of veterans with a service related mental Cardiff University. health problem. The service works with partners to ensure Supporting amputee veterans veterans can access all the services they Through our investment in our health may need. Since it was set up in 2010, service, we have supported veterans who VNHSW has received over 3500 referrals have lost limbs during their service, to to the service. ensure they have the prosthetics they Testimony from Veterans require to help them succeed in their NHS Wales patient: future lives. From April 2018 to February 2019 the Welsh Health Specialised Service Committee agreed 18 requests for War I was reluctant to ask for help off Veteran Prosthesis at an estimated cost anybody and thought if I just carried of £118,073. on, time would be a healer, but after 13 years of avoiding my PTSD Since the introduction of the War Veteran symptoms it was worse than ever. Policy in October 2013 to date, the Welsh I finally listened to my wife, to see a Health Specialised Services Committee has doctor, or ‘that’s it’. agreed funding for 90 requests to fund prosthetic devices for war veterans, with I felt at ease with my therapist who an estimated expenditure of £926,673. targeted my issues and prioritised my This includes replacement devices, immediate thoughts in order to upgrades and specialist blades. become more stable. It was welcoming to hear that I was not alone and I didn’t Priority Treatment have to feel so guilty having another point of view from the therapist did During 2017 the Welsh Government really help. I know my PTSD will never worked with the Royal British Legion be healed but I am now in charge of it to promote and raise awareness of the rather than it being in charge of me. principle of priority treatment for veterans with health needs. My veteran’s therapist saved my life and I, my wife and two little boys will always be thankful, I gave trauma focused therapy a go and it saved my life. What have you got to lose? 21 50
New Welsh Government guidance was Fast-track Referral Pathway issued to NHS staff in September 2017 We recognise the valuable work carried out that gave GPs, consultants, allied health through the MoD Fast-track Pathway in professionals and administrative staff Wales. Providing secondary and specialist more information on the process of care, the service prioritises access to identifying, recording and referring treatments for Service personnel who are veterans eligible for priority healthcare. Serving but are currently graded Colleagues within individual health boards as ‘medically not deployable’. with responsibility for the Armed Forces Between August 2014 and February are working to promote awareness of 2019, Welsh Health Specialised Services the policy across the NHS and the wider Committee has processed 210 requests community. In collaboration with NHS for the Fast Track treatment of actively colleagues, we have developed a national Serving personnel. From 2016/18 the poster for display in GP surgeries to estimated cost of this provision further raise awareness of the policy and was £120k. encourage veterans to self-identify so medical staff are aware of any service- related conditions. This will be promoted Free swimming and developed throughout 2019/20. Service personnel can access free swimming at Local Authority swimming GMS forms – Identifying the pools across Wales using their Defence Armed Forces community Privilege Card. Launched in 2015, the Welsh Government has extended this In September 2015 we amended the GMS scheme until 2021. A total of 8,977 free form to include questions on military swims were recorded during 2017/18. service to enable identification when registering with a GP practice. Veterans Hearing fund We have also ensured the use of standard The Veterans Hearing Fund provides read codes for recording on health support to veterans who acquired hearing information systems. This will ensure loss during Service. It is open to those veterans are identified and able to access who have a wellbeing need that cannot be priority treatment should their condition met through statutory services (such as be the result of their time within the the NHS). In 2018, 114 veterans in Wales Services. received support through the fund.
NHS waiting lists Substance Misuse support In Wales, we honour the time spent on Working Together to Reduce Harm is the an NHS waiting list in other areas. Welsh Government’s Substance Misuse If a member of the Armed Forces or their Delivery Plan. Focussing on both mental immediate family is on a NHS waiting list and physical wellbeing it also considers and they are posted to another part of the substance misuse. In Wales, Area country, any waiting time accrued will be Planning Boards have been established carried forward with them. in each health board area. The boards are responsible for the development All Local Health Boards in Wales are aware and management of substance misuse of this commitment and should honour it. services. During 2016/17 308 veterans received treatment and support across Wales. 22 50
Psychological therapies Psychological therapies, such as cognitive While not specifically aimed at RAF behaviour therapy and mindfulness, can families based at Valley, the families have help those suffering from PTSD. We are benefited from the additional access that committed to continuing the provision of the commissioning has provided. psychological therapies in adult services and from 2018 we have provided health Gambling boards with an additional £4million in The Welsh Government has supported the funding. A national action plan that takes research being undertaken by Swansea into account the cognitive behaviour University on a UK Armed Forces Veterans’ therapy needs of all the population, Health & Gambling Study to investigate including veterans, is being implemented the attitudes towards, and experiences across Wales. of gambling amongst the Armed Forces community. Dentistry The Welsh Government has provided an We will continue to support this additional £1.3m recurrently from 2017/18 important work. which will help create 10,000 new NHS dental places across Wales, benefitting Metrics members of the Armed Forces community. We have developed metrics to provide clear data and evidence relating to the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board Armed forces community in Wales and our has commissioned additional primary performance in meeting that need: care dental services across North Wales, including the practice at Valley on Anglesey.
Mental health Table 1: Veteran NHS Wales referrals receiving an assessment and treatment
2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17
Number of 191 205 329 390 542 607 633 referrals
% referrals receive 60-70 73 57 assessment
% referrals receive 30-50 58 39 treatment
Source: Veteran NHS Wales Annual Reports 2010-11 to 2017-18 www.veteranswales.co.uk/resources.html 23 50
Prosthetics The All Wales Military Prosthetics Working prosthetics in Wales, however, the British Group have however calculated estimates Limbless Ex-Servicemen’s Association based on BLESMA data. There is no data (BLESMA) collects data in relation to British specifically in relation to veterans with service men and women with loss of limbs.
Table 2: The number of prosthetic interventions, e.g. prosthetic panel applications, assisted by BLESMA between 2015-2017
2015 2016 2017
Number of prosthetic interventions2 191 205 329
Estimate number of veterans in Wales requiring 89 prosthetic support3
Source: BLESMA Trustees’ Annual and Strategic Reports 2015 to 2017 https://blesma.org/news-media/annual-report/ Military Prosthetics Advisory Group Report 2013 www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/app/uploads/2014/02/Report_of_the_Military_Prosthetics_ Advisory_Group_-_2013_Version_1_October2.pdf
Substance misuse The number of veterans in Wales who are The 2018-19 figures relate to April 2018 receiving or have received treatment for to February 2019 and were extracted on alcohol or drug misuse 2014-15 can be 27/03/2019. seen in the below table.
Table 3: Number of veterans in Wales receiving treatment for substance misuse between 2014-15 and 2018-19
2018-19 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 (April to February) No. of veterans who are receiving/ have received treatment for 302 345 280 293 315 alcohol or drug misuse
Source: NHS Wales Informatics Service’s Information Services Division (ISD) http://www.wales.nhs.uk/informatics23
2. https://blesma.org/news-media/annual-report/ 3. https://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/app/uploads/2014/02/Report_of_the_Military_Prosthetics_Advisory_Group_-_2013_ Version_1_October2.pdf 24 50 25 50
Education and Skills The Welsh Government recognises that on return to civilian life Service leavers and veterans may want to expand and develop their skills gained during Service. We also recognise the challenges faced by We are working with the Armed Forces spouses seeking employment and Service Families Federations and partner children in education due to parental organisations to better understand this, deployment and the emotional pressures and to support their needs going forward. this can cause.
AC E E E TS EDUCAT
2018 2019 STRY F 2,500 DEFE CE £249K £200K 2018 2019 14 27 46K schools benefitted in financial year 2017/2018, £1.6M has benefitted from 2011 2012
Education Support for Service Children The Welsh Government is committed to children. We introduced the Supporting equity of provision in education for all Service Children in Wales Fund in 2018/19 children and young people, and recognises directed towards the educational support the particular challenges that face certain of Service children. £248,606 was awarded groups of learners including Service during 2018/19, which provided full or 26 50
partial funding for 27 successful bids from Further and Higher Education September 2018. Commitment scheme Following the Secretary of State for Wales’ Further and Higher Education Defence’s announcement of an extension Commitment scheme pays the tuition to the MoD‘s Education Support Fund, fees of Service leavers living in Wales 14 schools/Local Authorities have when they study for a first full level 3 successfully secured full or partial funding qualification, a first undergraduate or totalling £200,769 in 2019. foundation degree, or a first HNC or HND. The Welsh Government contributed a total Since 2011/12 projects supporting Service of £232,464 in the academic financial year children in Wales have received over £1.5m 2017/18 towards this scheme enabling from the Education Support fund. Service leavers across Wales to benefit The Welsh Government continues to from further/higher education. fund the Supporting Service Children in In addition to support for tuition fees Education (SSCE) Cymru Project. SSCE through the Enhanced Learning Credits Cymru provides a dedicated officer to work Scheme, there is separate financial help with schools, families, Local Authorities from the Welsh Government towards living and partner organisations across Wales to costs for students wishing to study for improve support for service children. their first Higher Education qualification. SSCE Cymru also conducts and This is dependent on household income, commissions research into areas of Service and where they decide to study. children’s experiences in education. Research commissioned in June 2018 explored ‘experiences of Service families Recognition of prior learning with children with Additional Learning The Armed Forces Learning Credits Needs (ALN) in education in Wales’. Scheme helps support personal development. Standard Learning Credits The research also examined the (SLC) fund small-scale learning whilst potential impacts of the new ALN Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) are Transformation Programme on Service designed to provide help towards the cost children living and moving into Wales of gaining further or higher education and has been considered in the context qualifications. of the programme of work underway to implement to Additional Learning Needs During service veterans may have and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018. registered for, and made use of, ELC which they can continue to claim for up Work is continuing in Wales to enable the to 5 years from their leaving date. collection of data on Service children in Ex-Service personnel who enlisted prior schools through the Pupil Level Annual to 1 April 2011 and are eligible, can claim School Census. from up to 10 years after leaving the The collection of data on Service children Service. will enable an improved understanding of The University of South Wales in Cardiff is their attainment levels and educational an example of a Higher Education provider requirements to better address which will support veterans to determine their needs. the number of Higher Education credits they have accrued, and help them decide options for a new career. 27 50
Other examples of programmes Additional Learning Needs designed to support the Armed Forces The Additional Learning Needs and community are: Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018, Armed Forces Bereavement makes provision for a new statutory Scholarship Scheme framework for supporting children, including Service children with additional In Wales, the Armed Forces Bereavement learning needs (ALN). The new ALN Scholarship Scheme provides children of system is expected to be implemented those who have died in the service of their over a three year period from September country a head start in life by providing a 2020, and will make provision for children scholarship. and young people who require extra In financial year 2017/18, the Welsh support with their learning, including, Government contributed a total of £45,925 Service children. supporting students on this scheme. Work is also underway on a new ALN Code, Service children and school admissions which will include specific guidance relating The Welsh Government recognises the to Service children with ALN. early years as ‘critical stages’ in a child’s Motivational Preparation College for education and classifies Service children Training with excepted status. This means that the Motivational Preparation College for School Admissions Code makes provision Training (MPCT) is a training provider for Service children to be admitted to an with 31 locations based around the UK. infant class mid-term, even if it means the class will breach the infant class size limit. The MCPT is focused on teaching young people between 16-19 years through the Places can be allocated to Service families Foundation Learning Programme. With a in advance of them moving into the unique programme it assists young people area, and to prioritise Service children in to develop in line with their Mission, the school admissions process. “To engage, motivate and educate to The Code is subject to ongoing review to achieve excellence for all”. ensure that Service families are not being disadvantaged through the interpretation The effect has been a positive support of the Code. process for their learners enabling them to progress into a chosen career of choice Cadets programme in Wales either in the military, further education or The Welsh Government is working full time employment. The British Armed collaboratively with the Reserve Forces Forces have been the largest benefactor and Cadets Association (RFCA) to ensure for progression. schools are able to engage with the Cadet programme in Wales. The Cadets’ This has resulted in 82% progression rates programme forms part of the broad range in Wales MPCT colleges for 2018, and 39% of services to young people in Wales and of learners moving in to employment, they have an important contribution to selecting the British Armed Forces as their make, helping young people develop in career of choice. MPCT continued to adapt many ways, including becoming more their teaching and learning to meet the confident in themselves, and developing diverse needs of employers. life skills. Welsh Government officials continue to engage with the MoD Youth and Cadet Council. 28 52 29 50
Housing It is recognised that having suitable affordable accommodation when leaving the Armed Services is pivotal to a successful transition. Going forward we will continue to strive Rough Sleeping to ensure that the housing provision The Welsh Government has established an meets the needs of our Armed Forces objective to end the need for anyone to community in Wales. sleep rough by ensuring appropriate and accessible accommodation is available. Housing Pathway In 2015, an annual monitoring exercise Published in 2016, the Welsh Government was introduced. During the annual rough National Housing Pathway for ex-Service sleeper count we now ask the question if Personnel outlines the support and someone has served in the Armed Forces. services available to ex-Service personnel and their families in Wales so they know what the options are available to them. CASE STUDY It also provides housing professionals with Supporting veterans with information on the wide range of support accommodation needs available to the Armed Forces community. Developed in collaboration with our Working with the Gwent Armed Forces partners this Pathway has been publicised liaison officer, Local Authorities in the to the Armed Forces community, Local area have amended their housing policy Authorities and housing associations to take account of time served in the in Wales. Armed Forces when it comes to housing waiting lists. To further promote the Pathway we have developed advice cards along with leaflets To help alleviate any disadvantage and posters for ex-Service personnel who that being away serving in the Forces are sleeping rough. These publications may have led to with regard to housing include contact details for the Veterans’ waiting lists, the Local Authorities Gateway Service - a fully bi-lingual are taking the date of when someone ‘one stop shop’ for veterans and family joined the Forces as effective date of members to access services and support registration on the housing waiting list. in one place. They are applying this rule to those who Priority Need are likely to be homeless upon discharge from the Forces; a veteran applying for Members of the Armed Forces community rehousing within 3 months of discharge are classed as priority if they are homeless and, in extenuating circumstance, where when leaving the Forces. This provides an a veteran applies for rehousing beyond important safety net during transition. 3 months and up to 2 years from their date of discharge and are able to The Welsh Government has commissioned demonstrate that during this time they an independent assessment of priority have been unable to establish stable need in Wales to determine if amendments accommodation. are required that will continue to support our aim of ensuring that veterans are able to access the support and services they need. The independent evaluation will report in April 2020. 30 50
Guidance for Local Authorities Clos Parc Morgannwg Within the code of guidance the Welsh Clos Parc Morgannwg in Cardiff consists of Government requires Local Authorities, 35 homes made up of 18 apartments and when considering urgent housing need, 17 houses. give reasonable preference to anyone who has a serious injury, medical condition, or A section of Clos Parc Morgannwg was any impairment, which they or a member allocated as a housing cluster for veterans of their household has sustained as a and their families, and they were housed result of service in the Armed Forces. as part of a joint initiative between Taff Housing Association and the Homebuy – Veterans have priority status Welsh Veterans Partnership (WVP). in the Welsh Government Homebuy scheme. Widows and widowers of The initiative is part of the WVP personnel who have been killed in Service “Coming Home Project” which aims to are also eligible for the scheme. In 2015 ensure veterans and Service families £2m was made available to provide have full support and help to aid smooth housing for Armed Service leavers in Wales transition to civilian life which will allow and was allocated to Local Authorities them to prosper and lead productive lives. in Wales. This has helped eight Service The scheme was developed by the Jehu leavers and their families find suitable Group and completed in October 2017 with accommodation to date. the Welsh Government providing Social Housing Grant funding of over £2.5 million, First Choice Housing in partnership with towards the cost of the scheme. Wrexham Local Authority has helped provide some additional veterans housing in North Wales. Completed Hafal in Spring 2018, Wrexham’s self-build Based in Denbighshire Hafal, Acute Care project; Tˆy Ryan, has enabled veterans Tenancy Support (ACTS) is a time-limited to participate in the construction of high-intensity floating support project their own homes, acquiring a range of providing tenancy-related support for skills and qualifications in the process individuals who are accessing secondary which may aid their future employment care services and are at risk of losing their opportunities. tenancy as a result of a relapse in their mental health, veterans are included in Also in Wrexham, Tˆy Dewr offers 12 their client base. en-suite bedrooms in a high quality building set in a tranquil area with easy access to the town centre. Residents (and members of the community) have use of a Trim Track gymnasium built into the grounds. With support provided for those struggling to make the transition intocivilian life, facing homelessness, mental or physical ill health. Veterans can also make use of therapeutic training at the nearby Erlas Victorian Walled Garden project. 31 50
CASE STUDY Wales homes for veterans Key workers work with veterans to provide tailored support, engaging with Run by the charity Alabare it provides local partners, Armed Forces charities dedicated housing provision and support and statutory agencies to provide to veterans in Cardiff, Pontypridd, holistic support to meet the individual Swansea, Carmarthen and Conwy. needs of the veteran.
Haig Housing housing solutions to suit the individual needs of severely wounded and disabled Haig Housing provides housing assistance veterans. to ex-Service people and/or their dependants. The trust lets general needs Haig Housing has homes in Cardiff and homes at affordable rents to the ex- Swansea. Service community, and provides tailored 32 50 33 50
Benefits and Finance The Welsh Government understands that accessing the benefits that Service leavers and veterans are entitled to can be a challenging experience, especially if there is confusion about what support is available. We are working with our key partners to ensure the process is as stress free as possible.
AC E E E TS E EF TS F A CE
50% 2017 TRA S RT REDUCT 659 2018
DEFE CE R EGE CARD FREE US TRA E Veterans are aware of the benefits on offer 27,400 17,000
Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) The DWP in Wales has ensured provisions An Armed Forces Champion is based in are in place for veterans, Service personnel each Jobcentre plus office. Working closely and their families in need of advice and with the Champions an active network support. of Armed Forces Single Point of Contacts (SPoCs) is in place in every Jobcentre site Across Wales, Armed Forces Champions across Wales, helping the Armed Forces have been put in place to support community access benefits, support members of the Armed Forces community services, and find employment. and their families. 34 50
In Wales DWP staff are working with Figures up to December 2018 indicate external partners to explore how they there were 659 Blue Badges issued to can support veterans with severe PTSD veterans in Wales. Seriously injured to access their services more easily and veterans are eligible for concessionary in more appropriate surroundings where bus travel. home visits are not possible. The Welsh Government extended the The DWP has actively raised awareness entitlement to a concessionary bus pass of the Armed Forces Covenant, both in 2011 specifically to those in receipt of externally to employers and internally Armed Forces Compensations Scheme amongst staff. Employer advisers promote (AFCS). the Covenant and encourage employers to sign up. Those not in receipt of the AFCS tariffs 1-8, or aged 60 years or older, have to In South West Wales a marketing exercise demonstrate to their Local Authority, was conducted targeting every employer which administers the scheme, that they on their database, resulting in 8 new meet the other qualifying criteria which registrations. DWP staff in Wrexham have are set out in legislation and which have supported the RBLI Lifeworks course, applied since the scheme was introduced conducting mock employment interviews in 2002. for veterans on the course. The Welsh Government introduced a 50% DWP employee Nicola Peacock joined the council tax discount for Armed Forces Army Cadet Force (ACF) in 2017 as an personnel on second homes in 2013. adult volunteer. She is now a Sargent, and will be attending Westbury in July 2019 War Disablement Pension (WDP) to participate in Commissioned Officer Disregard and Armed Forces assessment. Nicola has been supported Compensation Scheme by DWP to participate in training and camps, and she regularly talks to Since 2017 the Welsh Government colleagues about the benefits to young guidelines have fully disregarded War people of taking part in cadet activities. Disablement Pension and Armed Forces Compensation Scheme payments in the Fuel poverty – Veterans are eligible for the means test for social care. Energy Company Obligations Schemes to assist in cases of Fuel Poverty. As a consequence veterans affected The Welsh Government will be considering by this change were able to retain the eligibility to the Welsh Government’s Warm full value of this WDP and AFCS to help Homes Programme and how veterans can meet their daily living costs and may be supported as part of the policy review have, depending upon their financial taking place in 2019. circumstances, seen a reduction in their charge for their care (or their contribution Transport or reimbursement for their direct payments) due to a higher disregard of Veterans in receipt of benefit provided income applied in a financial assessment. under the Armed Forces and Reserved Compensation Scheme are entitled to a blue badge. Recent regulations extended the eligibility for a badge to veterans with cognitive impairment when in receipt of the relevant benefit award. 35 50
Defence Privilege Card The Government funded A Welsh Government funded awareness Childcare Offer campaign to promote the benefits of the Taking Wales Forward commits the Welsh Defence Privilege Card was launched in Government to providing 30 hours a week Wales, to ensure more Serving personnel of government-funded early education and veterans were made aware of the and childcare for working parents of three benefits on offer. These include discounts, and four year olds, for up to 48 weeks of both online and on the high street, the year. in retail, leisure and other venues. From April 2019 the scheme will be fully To date there are 27,400 members in rolled out across all Local Authorities, Wales with just over 17,000 card holders. and will benefit both Serving and ex-Service families. 36 50 37 50
Support on Return to Civilian Life
AC E E E TS SU RT RETUR T C A FE
2019 STo 3.5% Supporting the Transition of Military Personnel 40K
arc and erw n 4
Change Step offer peer mentoring services. Hire a Hero offer employability support
Loneliness and Social Isolation strategy The Welsh Government is committed to Examples of good practice in supporting developing a cross-government and this include; Woody’s Lodge, Change Step, cross-sector approach to tackling The Royal British Legion, Valleys Veterans loneliness and isolation in Wales. and the Regimental Associations. Working with partners, we will ensure veterans are given access to facilities We are also aware that the issue does not and services within their communities. only affect older veterans and continue to work with groups including those outlined Engagement has included the public, above to promote services where veterans charities sector and veterans support of all ages can come together and engage. groups to consider research, evidence and prevention of loneliness and social isolation. 38 50 39 50
Working in partnership with a range of CASE STUDY support organisations, Change Step provides dedicated services for those in Valleys Veterans is an independent crisis, older veterans, and people with support group in Pentre, mental health and substance Rhondda Cynon Taf. It is run by a former misuse needs. Welsh Guard and Falklands veteran. Armed Forces Liaison Officers Every week 20-40 veterans attend the group to enjoy breakfast, a raffle and The appointment of Armed Forces Liaison to have a catch up. Providers such as Officers across most Local Authorities in Veterans UK and the Royal British Wales, supported by the Armed Forces Legion provide advice and support Covenant Fund, has enabled greater local when required to veterans in coordination of support for the Armed attendance. Forces community. Funding was due to end in 2019 with the Welsh Government continuing to support these roles for a Cardiff City Veterans Project further two years with a funding package Grant funding from the Royal British of £500k. This will enable services and Legion has enabled Cardiff City Football support for the ex-Serving community to Club Foundation to create a Veteran’s be embedded in mainstream support from Project, designed to use the power of Local Authorities in future years. Cardiff City FC to engage with socially isolated retired and ex-Armed Forces Criminal Justice personnel, or those at risk of becoming The Welsh Government doesn’t believe lonely in and around Cardiff. ex-Serving personnel within the Criminal Their aim is to help veterans re-build old Justice System should be overlooked and connections, develop new relationships deterred from receiving support because and help them to become more mentally they have taken a ‘wrong turning’. and physically active. ‘A Framework to support positive change for those at risk of offending in Wales’ Their project seeks to focus on these key (2018-2023) has been developed jointly issues and provide structure and support by Welsh Government and Her Majesty’s that allows veterans to come together, Prison and Probation Service on behalf of have fun and take part in a range of new the All Wales Criminal Justice Board. activities led by their interests that target The purpose of the framework is to physical and mental activity. improve services for those at risk of entering, or those already in, the Criminal Change Step Justice System. One priority area is to improve provision for ex-Armed Services In 2019 the Welsh Government provided Personnel. £40k to CAIS to enable them to continue to deliver Change Step’s Peer Mentoring A key example of partnership working is Service, delivered by veterans for the Supporting the Transition of Military veterans. Personnel (SToMP) project. 40 50
It is a whole system approach to supporting ex-Service personnel who CASE STUDY come into contact with the Criminal Justice System in Wales. The Endeavour Unit at HMP Parc in South Wales opened in 2015, housing In the past year SToMP has implemented ex-Service personnel with prisoners its ex Armed Forces Personnel (AFP) whole sentenced to custody for the first time. system pathway at the five Welsh prisons. The unit provides a focus for specialist The SToMP team worked closely with all veteran support services working prisons in Wales to scope their existing outside the prison to help rehabilitate processes of identification, support and prisoners during sentence and on referrals of ex AFPs, and develop a shared, release. consistent approach. Peer mentoring services for ex-Service The pathway includes identification, personnel are delivered by organisations recording and signposting stages with including Change Step with employability consideration of transferring ex AFP support from Hire a Hero. where appropriate to HMP Parc and HMP Berwyn’s dedicated ex AFP units. Adopting a similar model, HMP Berwyn (a category C training prison for Veteran Care Committees are also sentenced adult and young adult men) encouraged to pull together key partners, opened in February 2017 in Wrexham, both within and outside the establishment, North Wales. Including a veteran wing, to ensure ongoing buy-in to the Pathway. there is a strong focus on rehabilitation The Pathway also encourages a Veteran as over time the veteran prisoners are Liaison Officer in each prison (a role moved out of the veteran wing to aid recommended by the Phillips Review)4 and transition into civilian life. for their attendance at quarterly covenant meetings. SToMP has also coordinated a series of prison community days across the five prisons in Wales, funded by an Armed Forces Covenant Grant. Activities included an assault course, a walking football match between Endeavour and Change Step, a veterans’ family day, HMP Rye Hill challenge and employment events.
4. AFP ending up in the Justice System, to look at support provided to them, and how that support could be improved. 41 50
Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust During its first three years, the Covenant provision of services down to small grants Fund has provided support to the Armed encouraging communities to get together. Forces community in Wales, through the The diagram below shows how Wales has provision of ambitious, large-scale projects benefitted from Covenant funding. that change the way they approach
AC E E E TS AR ED F RCES C E A T FU D GRA TS WA ES: T E F RST 3 YEARS What the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust does. FOUR
1 2 after service 3 4 £2.2M
Armed Forces Former Service Leavers in Strengthening Local Covenant Local Grants the Criminal Justice System Delivery of the Covenant £570K £824K £810K 0 first three years of the needs identified through
£2M UK WIDE GRANTS Supporting £2M Communities in Wales www.covenant Forces Communities in different geographic areas. fund.org.uk 42 50 43 50
Employment and Skills The majority of Service leavers integrate back into community life effectively. However some, through a variety of reasons, find transition difficult and are unable to find employment. Finding meaningful employment that It offers a single point of contact for recognises the skills Service personnel businesses and entrepreneurs to advice have gained during their time in the Armed and support from public, private and Forces has been identified as a key factor voluntary sectors. in helping Service leavers, veterans and their families integrate back into civilian Neil, former Royal Marine and personal life and contribute to the communities in trainer from Aberystwyth, now based in which they settle. Rhondda Cynon Taf: The Welsh Government, in collaboration with members of the Armed Forces Expert Business Wales for me was extremely Group, has developed an Employment helpful in helping me with my business Pathway. idea. I had 3 meetings with a member of the team and I was met with great Employment Pathway professionalism and enthusiasm. The Pathway outlines the employment They listened to my ideas and acted options and services that are available accordingly based on my plans. to offer assistance. It aims to lessen the Together, Business Wales and I set small challenge facing Serving personnel finding targets to achieve and they were always new employment during transition. on hand via email or phone if I required any assistance. Employers’ Toolkit They also provided me with a business plan template which was very easy to The Welsh Government in partnership follow. with Business in the Community Cymru developed an Employers’ Toolkit to I wouldn’t be making the progressive complement the Employment Pathway. steps I am today if I didn’t get involved It provides clear guidance for employers with Business Wales. on the added benefits of employing ex-Service personnel, the toolkit will help inform recruitment processes that are accessible to veterans, ensure recruiters Community Employability and managers understand how to Programmes interpret military experience and provide The Welsh Government’s Community practical workplace experience, offering Based Employability Programme provides skills and conversion training. intensive mentoring and support to both engage and address the complex Business Wales barriers to employment across all groups Business Wales is the Welsh Government’s including ex-Service personnel ensuring bilingual business support service that opportunities for all. provides impartial, independent support and advice to people starting, running and growing a business in Wales. 44 50 45 50
Communities for Work and Working Wales Communities for Work Plus On 1st May 2019, the Welsh Government Working in partnership with the launched Working Wales. Based on Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), individuals’ personal circumstances and the Communities for Work Plus programme aspirations, trained advisors will identify is an additional service funded by the the most suitable support for that person. Welsh Government, and includes support In agreement with the individual, advisors for veterans and their families. will then refer individuals to the most appropriate support; this could be careers Employability Skills Programme advice and guidance, current Employment The Welsh Government’s Employability Skills Programme provision, Communities Skills programme aims to support for Work or other interventions. From early unemployed adults into a job and to 2020 Working Wales will be the single stay in work by improving their entry point of referrals on to Job Support employability skills. Wales. The Programme offers a high quality work Job Support Wales placement or employer specific training which is combined with work preparation Job Support Wales is due to commence training, and essential skills provision if in early 2020. The programme will required. consolidate the Welsh Government’s current suite of employment support The Programme is aimed at unemployed to deliver a joined-up approach to adults who have a reasonable chance of employability and skills support, designed being ready for employment within six to meet individuals’ needs. months, including ex-Service personnel. The programme will support people of all ages, including veterans to overcome any barriers they may have, in order to achieve and maintain good quality, sustainable employment.
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Commemoration The Welsh Government is proud of our vibrant Welsh nation with its own language, heritage and cultural identity. Wales also has a proud history of military Just over a thousand Serving Personnel, tradition and we recognise the value the Cadets and Veterans took part in the Armed Forces bring to our communities. parade along the promenade. They should not be taken for granted, and the sacrifices made by them during conflict The parade was watched by a number of should be honoured. dignitaries including Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Rt Hon. Theresa May Recognising their bravery the MP, and the First Minister of Wales the Welsh Government fully supports Rt Hon Carwyn Jones. Remembrance events across Wales, including providing £20,000 per annum to Over 100,000 onlookers gathered along support Armed Forces day flagship events the promenade to support the parade in North and South Wales. and then enjoy a range of activities and displays including a visit from HMS Somerset, a combat display, military National Armed Forces Day working dogs demonstration and a flypast In 2018, Conwy County Borough Council from the Red Arrows. hosted National Armed Forces Day. The day also saw a return of Shenkin IV, The Welsh Government provided £185k the goat from the Great Orme, for his first to support this prestigious event. official parade as mascot leading the The Day celebrated the Armed Forces, and 3rd Battalion the Royal Welsh. provided an opportunity for the public to express their support and thanks to the wider Armed Forces community. 48 50
Cymru’n Cofio
The First World War had a profound impact In 2018, the focus of Wales’ First World on Wales. The loss of almost 40,000 men War commemoration turned to the affected nearly every community and the centenary of the signing of the Armistice war stimulated major changes in society, on 11 November 1918. A Remembrance economy and politics, which accelerated Sunday service was held at the Welsh in the decades ahead. National War Memorial in Cardiff. Wales then joined the rest of the UK and The Welsh Government’s commemorative countries farther afield in the ringing of framework programme, Cymru’n Cofio bells to mark the centenary of the end Wales Remembers 1914-1918, was of the war. designed to foster a better understanding of the war among people of all ages and The day finished with a National Service backgrounds. of Thanksgiving at Llandaff Cathedral, where the tone was one of reflection and Events have included the unveiling of thanksgiving. a lasting monument in the village of Langemark to Welsh soldiers who died Cymru’n Cofio Wales Remembers in Flanders. 1914-1918 was awarded further funding to enable continuation of the programme To commemorate Passchendaele a up until 31 March 2020, and to include National Service of Remembrance was held a period for evaluation and creation of on 31 July 2017 at the site of the a digital legacy. Welsh Memorial in Flanders. 49 50
What we will do – Commitments 2019/20 »» Continue to fund Veterans NHS Wales »» Work with Business in the Community to enable veterans to access treatment Cymru to promote the benefits of specifically targeting mental health employing members of the Armed issues. We will also invest in the creation Forces community and ‘Veterans of national and regional initiatives to Awareness Week’. prevent suicide and self-harm. »» Work with key partners to support and »» Continue to fund free bus travel for promote Reservists Day. injured veterans . »» As part of the Cymru’n Cofio programme »» Provide funding for the Armed Forces consider how this legacy and stories can Liaison Officers for 2 years from 2019. be accessed by future generations. »» Consult with the Armed Forces »» Continue to support commemorative community on the status of veterans events, including the 75 Anniversary of as part of our housing priority need D Day and the S’Hertogenbosch Welsh consultation. liberation. »» Continue to fund free swimming for »» Produce a report detailing the findings veterans and Serving personnel and recommendations from our Scoping until 2021. Exercise, and work with key partners to identify the means of delivering »» Update the Code of Guidance for identified issues. Housing Allocations and Homelessness – including consideration of support for »» Work with the Families Federations to divorced or separated spouses and civil identify the support needs for Service partners of Service personnel. families living in Wales. »» Ensure veterans, Serving personnel »» Refresh our Welcome to Wales document and families are part of ongoing work for Serving personnel. to deliver our first loneliness and social isolation strategy. »» Continue to promote and support the recruitment of Reservists within Welsh »» Working with the Veteran’s Gateway, Government and the wider public sector, Northumbria University and the Welsh as part of ongoing communications on Local Government Association publicise Armed Forces Day and whenever the local services, including veteran support opportunity arises. groups and hubs, to enable the Armed Forces community access peer support »» Continue to progress the work to enable and services locally. the collection of data on Service children in schools through the Pupil Level »» Continue to provide support to our Annual School Census. Armed Forces Fora across Wales to identify emerging issues and good »» Continue to review the Service Children’s practice. Admission Code to ensure that service families are not being disadvantaged »» Continue our engagement with through the interpretation of the Code. Swansea University to support research into gambling in the Armed Forces »» Continue to review delivery of the community. Fast Track Referral Pathway to ensure optimum service delivery. 50 50
Closing Words
I would like to pay tribute to all members of the Armed Forces Expert Group. Without their support we would not have achieved the progress we have. I would also like to thank not just members of the Armed Forces Expert Group but all the other organisations including Woody’s Lodge, Project 360 and Age Cymru, Business in the Community, Change Step, and many more in providing support for our veterans and their families. The recommendations from the Scoping Exercise will form the direction in which we target our services going forward and Hannah Blythyn AM I expect all organisations across the sector Deputy Minister for Housing and to play their part in this. Local Government