Redditch Borough Council takes great pride in announcing its pledge to become a part of the respected Armed Forces Covenant, reaffirming its commitment to support the brave men and women who protect our nation.

This important pledge signifies an understanding that those who serve or have served in the armed forces - along with their families - deserve fairness, respect, support and equal opportunities within our communities, economy, and society.

Nationally, the covenant focusses on making sure members of the armed forces community have the same access to government and commercial services and products as any other citizen and helping them to access the support they may need.

This support is provided in a number of areas including:

• Education and family well-being
• Having a home
• Starting a new career
• Access to healthcare
• Financial assistance
• iscounted services

Armed Forces Champion and ex Royal Engineer, Councillor Alex Fogg, said: "I am honoured to have played a part in Redditch Borough Council's commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant. Our servicemen and women make tremendous sacrifices to serve our country, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the utmost respect and support. By joining this covenant, we are reinforcing our dedication to creating a community that openly values and cherishes our armed forces."

Leader of the Council, Councillor Matt Dormer, said: "The Armed Forces Covenant represents a promise between our council and the armed forces community. As we take this significant step forward, we are eager to continue to support, empower and uplift our armed forces community, enabling them to thrive and succeed in all aspects of their lives.” Building upon this pledge, the council is now preparing to apply for the Bronze Award, which recognises organisations that actively pledge, demonstrate, or advocate support for defence and the armed forces community.

Redditch Borough Council were previously included in a joint Covenant, which was led by Worcestershire County Council in 2012, but this has now been replaced by individual Covenants which Redditch Borough Council have chosen to proceed with.

For more information about the armed forces covenants go to www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk.