The Armed Forces Community Covenant Signatories Panel met on Monday 14 October 2024 to discuss updates from the Ministry of Defence, Swansea Bay University Health Board, and various panel members. Key discussions included upcoming Remembrance events, support services for veterans, and initiatives for service children.

Update from MOD

Captain Hugh Williams, Permanent Staff Admin Officer for 223 Transport Squadron, provided an update on recent activities and future plans for his squadron and the 157 West Transport Regiment. He highlighted a safe and skilled driving competition won by his squadron, troops attending training courses, and the regiment's annual training commitment exercise in Pearbrite. Two personnel deployed on Operation Lazarus to support the integration of Afghan families into UK society. The regiment is currently undertaking a simulated exercise in Germany.

Captain Williams also detailed upcoming Remembrance events. These include the Mayor of Neath and Port Talbot Festival of Remembrance on Friday 25 October, and a uniformed service and charities information day on Saturday 26 October in Aberavon Shopping Centre, which will feature the opening of the Garden of Remembrance and the awarding of the Armed Forces Covenant to eligible companies. A Service of Thanksgiving will be held at Christ Church on 3 November, with the aim of re-establishing it as the Garrison Church of Swansea. On 15 November, a new memorial will be unveiled on Towie Bridge to commemorate 70 soldiers from World War I.

Finn, from the MOD, echoed the details of the Remembrance concert on 25 October and the Armed Forces Festival Day on 26 October, noting that approximately 30 Armed Forces-related stands, entertainment, military vehicles, and interactive displays are expected.

Swansea Bay University Health Board Armed Forces Forum

Victoria Williams, a clinician working with veterans for Veterans NHS Wales at Swansea Health Board, reported on the forum's activities. In the last three months, there were 35 referrals, with 25 individuals opting in for assessment. Eighteen individuals have been assessed, with a waiting time of one week for assessments and no waiting list for therapy. Currently, 25 individuals are in therapy. The next clinical network meeting is scheduled for 19 December.

A significant ongoing issue is the lack of a psychiatrist, a problem that has persisted for 18 months. The team also attended World Mental Health Day, which was a positive engagement opportunity.

Update from Panel Members

Wing Cdr Phil Flower provided an extensive update on numerous events organised by the Royal British Legion and other organisations across Swansea. He highlighted the placement of 3,000 crosses outside Morgan's on the green for Remembrance, with 1,000 representing each of the armed forces. He also mentioned the Christchurch memorial service on 3 November and the Festival of Remembrance, which will feature various choirs, a violinist, a soloist, and a concert band.

Wing Cdr Flower emphasised the Royal British Legion's focus on engaging with veterans' associations and noted collaborations with Swansea City Football Club for a collection on 5 November. He also detailed arrangements for the parade and service in St. Mary's on Sunday 10 November, acknowledging the significant task of seating attendees. The appointment of Lord Mayor's Cadets from the Sea Cadets, Army Cadets, and Royal Air Force Air Cadets in September was also highlighted as a positive development. Plans are underway for VE Day 80 commemorations on 11 May 2025, with a focus on involving veterans' associations and youth organisations.

Kelly, Wing Cdr Flower's secretary, confirmed the busy schedule of events and stated that copies of invites for remembrance events would be circulated.

A representative from the Poppy Factory announced that a new post for a worker in the Swansea area would be advertised soon, focusing on supporting veterans with significant barriers to employment, such as housing and social isolation.

Paul Smith from the Veterans RV shared details of upcoming events, including a beach clean on 3 November, a Remembrance dip at Caswell Bay on 9 November, and the establishment of an RV Model Makers Club held on Tuesday nights at Morriston Fire Station, which provides models, paints, and kits courtesy of Models for Heroes.

Lt Cdr Andy Davies confirmed that Veterans NHS Wales would be collaborating with the Poppy Factory to help veterans re-engage with the idea of returning to work. He also praised the work of the Veterans RV, highlighting the positive impact of their activities, including cold water dipping and model making.

Gareth Jones, the new veterans project manager for the Bulldogs in Port Talbot, introduced himself and spoke about the organisation's regular drop-ins and a new Ladies Only Veterans Night. He also announced the upcoming unveiling of a new remembrance monument on 8 November.

Stephen Boswell provided an update on changes within SAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association), a charity supporting the armed forces community. He explained the transition from a volunteer-led service to a more regionally managed structure with a dedicated office team. Since the regional office's setup, over £500,000 has been distributed in financial support, with a total of nearly £2 million spent over the last two and a half years. SAFA receives approximately 250 calls per month, with most being answered live. The charity has identified 29 safeguarding concerns and is working with around 30 volunteers. Key areas of support include housing, mobility, maintenance, debt, and medical care.

Supporting Service Children in Education in Wales

This agenda item was not discussed.