The Armed Forces Community Covenant Signatories Panel met on Monday 12 October 2026. The meeting provided updates on regional armed forces covenant liaison, Ministry of Defence activities, and the Swansea Bay University Health Board's Armed Forces Forum. Panel members also shared updates on their respective organisations' work.

Regional Armed Forces Covenant Liaison Officer Update

Finola Pickwell, the Regional Armed Forces Covenant Liaison Officer, reported on her recent activities. She has been working with NHS Veterans Wales to develop pledges for the Swansea Bay University Health Board, which has signed the Community Covenant but not yet the updated Armed Forces Covenant from 2021. Pickwell also highlighted a successful Armed Forces Forum held in Bridgend, which invited the entire armed forces community to discuss their expectations of the council and what the council offers. She attended the 160 Brigade Brecon annual meeting and the Armed Forces Covenant Action Group, where the new legal duty for the covenant was discussed. A new suggested job description for Armed Forces Champions across Wales has been developed by the WLGA, and feedback is being sought. Pickwell also attended the Cambrian Patrol in Brecon and noted upcoming events including the RFCA annual briefing, the Mayor of Neath Port Talbot's Remembrance Concert, and the Neath Port Talbot Armed Forces Festival. She informed the panel about funding opportunities from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, including grants for service families, mental health support, and family focus projects, with various closing dates in October and November.

Ministry of Defence Update

Updates were provided by representatives from the Ministry of Defence. Sai reported that HMS Canberra has a new CEO, Colonel Chris Cedwood, the first Royal Marine to lead a reserve unit in the UK. Rob Goole shared that HMS Express was unable to dock in Swansea as planned due to scheduling conflicts and will now be in Poole, with a potential visit to Swansea in January offering opportunities for veterans, cadets, and civic leaders. He also mentioned that HMS Scott, Swansea's affiliated ship, is currently very busy due to ongoing global operations. Aidy Robinson, representing the 157 Regiment RLC, provided an update on the regiment's recent successes, including winning first place in the reserve category of the Northern Strike exercise and achieving a silver medal in the Cambrian Patrol. Robinson also noted that the regiment, like many others, is facing significant budget issues which may impact their ability to commit to past levels of support.

Swansea Bay University Health Board Armed Forces Forum

Victoria Williams provided an update on the Swansea Bay University Health Board's Armed Forces Forum. She reported that assessments are booked until November 11th, and the new referral system is leading to a high volume of referrals, which is seen as a positive development. The substance use pathway has been completed and is awaiting ratification, with early indications suggesting it is working well by directing individuals to appropriate detox and rehabilitation services before they engage with the health board. The prison pathway is now operational, with no disadvantage to individuals in prison in terms of accessing services. Williams is following up on an audit to improve GP referrals and will be presenting to a GP cluster meeting on working with veterans. She also mentioned ongoing discussions with VALOR and efforts to formalise the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant with Finola Pickwell's assistance.

Supporting Service Children in Education

A representative from the education department stated they had no significant update at present but would be meeting with SSC and Finola Pickwell in the coming weeks to advance plans.

Update from Panel Members

Wayne Jenkins, representing Swansea Veterans Hub and a VALOR recognised centre, reported that the hub has supported over 350 direct beneficiaries with issues including housing, employment, and mental health. They have partnered with Brenawa Rehab to offer a bursary bed for individuals with alcohol and substance abuse issues. Jenkins highlighted the growing number of referrals to the hub from various organisations, indicating the increasing need for their services. He also mentioned upcoming events, including the Armed Forces Festival in Neath Port Talbot, the Armed Forces Covenant event, and support for the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal. The hub is also planning Christmas activities, including a Christmas dinner for veterans and keeping the hub open throughout the festive period. Jenkins emphasised the importance of VALOR and the need for greater understanding of what it entails, noting that training is underway to improve awareness. Victoria Williams commended the Swansea Veterans Hub for their excellent work and the significant support they provide.

The meeting concluded with the next meeting scheduled for 25 January 2027.