STOCKTON Borough Council has adopted a renewed Armed Forces Community Covenant.

The covenant recognises the contribution of serving personnel, their families and veterans, as well as identifying how the Council can help those successfully adjust back into civilian life.

The first covenant was signed in 2012, and since then the Council has set up dedicated information pages on its website, and established a special armed forces community helpline number.

Councillor Bob Cook, Leader of the Council, said: “The centenary of the end of the First World War is a fitting reminder of how much we owe to the armed forces community, so it is an opportune time to adopt the revised covenant.

“The Council has worked hard to develop an action plan to assist our armed forces personnel with housing, employability issues, as well as health and care needs. We are dedicated to providing this support in the future.”

Lieutenant Colonel Nathan Teale, Commanding Officer of 8th Battalion The Rifles, said: “It’s wonderful that Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council has chosen to re-affirm its commitment to the armed forces community at this time of year.

“By re-signing the covenant it reinforces the excellent relationships that have been built to ensure they are not disadvantaged as a result of service. This can only be good for our serving personnel, their families and our veterans.”

Guru Naidoo, Chair of Catalyst, added: “We’re delighted to be pledging our commitment to this important covenant on behalf of the Borough’s Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector.

“It’s vital that the sector works collectively and cohesively to support the Borough’s armed forces community.”

To access the helpline, call 01642-528334. Further information is available at www.stockton.gov.uk/communitycovenant