Veterans and their Families

Veterans and their families need the next government to:

• Make the NHS priority treatment system work for veterans with injuries caused by Service in the Armed Forces or consider privately funded alternatives.
• Tackle poverty among veterans and their families by increasing incomes through:
  - doubling the Personal Expenses Allowance for those receiving residential care;
  - making the disregarding of all War Pension payments for means-testing for Council Tax Benefit and Housing Benefit a statutory requirement; and
  - developing an automated payment system for Council Tax Benefit.
• Ensure that local authorities meet their obligations to provide Disabled Facilities Grants to veterans who need adaptations to their homes.
• Exempt all veterans who require a Disabled Facilities Grant from the current means test if the adaptation is needed because of a Service related injury.
• Fund comprehensive research and provide additional compensation for duty of care breaches to veterans suffering from legacy health issues, including Gulf War and nuclear test veterans.
• Provide all Service leavers with an effective mental health education programme at the point of resettlement, so those at high risk know where to go for help.

"Since leaving the Navy in the 90s, my health has gone downhill as a result of my Service. It's hard for my family to understand how difficult it is, going from the close-knit life with crewmates, to having to go it alone. "More should be done to make sure veterans like me don't slip through the net and that we receive the support we need."

The stories contained in this manifesto are for illustrative purposes only and are based on issues and experiences that the Legion is aware of through its work.