Timely information for veterans and families (From Surrey Comet)

Timely information for veterans and families

10:09am Thursday 13th November 2008 in

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This year Remembrance Day is 90 years old and I’ll personally be remembering the sacrifices of members of the armed forces and of civilians in times of war.

The day also reminds us at the Legal Services Commission (LSC) to ensure that people who have risked their lives in the armed forces can find expert advice about their rights when they return home.

The young men and women serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and other parts of the world are, of course, at the very front of our minds at this time, but it is important not to forget veterans of earlier conflicts.

Last year, an adviser funded by legal aid money helped a homeless Army veteran suffering post traumatic stress disorder following his experiences in the Bosnian conflict.

The adviser was able to prove to the veteran’s local authority that he was a priority case on health grounds and he was rehoused.

We produce a leaflet called Veterans: Rights for Former Servicemen and Women and their Families.

This leaflet includes information for veterans – and their dependents – about financial help, pensions, claiming for compensation, finding somewhere to live and to work and getting service records.

It is available online at communitylegaladvice.org.

uk or via our helpline 084 5345 4345.

We believe timely information and advice reduces personal suffering as well as saving taxpayers’ money.

JOHN SIRDOCAR
Regional director
Legal Services Commission