Issue - meetings

(Copy herewith)

Cabinet affirmed its continuing support for the Northampton Armed Forces Community Covenant and noted progress to date and proposed future actions.

Councillor Duffy addressed Cabinet and noted that 1 in 10 homeless people in the country had armed forces background. She commented that Department for Communities and Local Government collected no data with regards to the number of returners who ended up homeless and commented that the difficulties faced by ex-armed forces were far reaching and included Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and issues with addictions. She questioned whether it would be possible to allow ex-servicemen/women who owned dogs to be provided for at the Nighshelter as they often relied on them for companionship.

Councillor Hibbert commented that there was no available space at the Nightshelter for dogs as there was limited space and commented that ex-service personnel were on the priority list for housing.

Councillor King as the relevant Cabinet Member, submitted a report and noted the progress that had been made and the ongoing commitment of the Council through the Community Covenant Action Plan. It was noted that a number of key actions had been completed over the past 12 month’s which included a website of all partners which provide the public with support and advice.

Councillor Larratt noted that the Council were 100% behind the proposed future actions to be delivered in support of the Northampton Armed Forces Community Covenant and commented that he recognised the issues Councillor Duffy raised and noted the Council’s gratefulness to the veterans.

RESOLVED:

That the Northampton Armed Forces Community Covenant be affirmed and Cabinet noted progress to date and proposed future actions.