Today’s defence-related media coverage includes reporting on the announcement of a new package of support for seriously-wounded armed forces personnel. The news comes as Lance Bombardier Ben Parkinson leaves the Army with new support and funding.
Support for wounded personnel
The Times reports that ten serving and former armed forces personnel will receive new funding and an improved package of support to take care of their long-term needs.
The piece highlights the story of Lance Bombardier Ben Parkinson, who lost both his legs in an attack by an anti-tank mine in Afghanistan. The Ministry of Defence will provide £24,000 per year, tax free, to support Ben’s care needs. The funding is in addition to support provided by the NHS.
The Sun also reported that Ben will now leave the Army with the improved support package to help him transition to civilian life.
Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:
Ben has given a lot for this country and I’d like to thank him and his family for all they have done throughout this process.
We have now agreed a package of support for Ben, to ensure that he gets the right care as he leaves the Army and moves into civilian life.
This new support package will also benefit other serving personnel who have been seriously injured.
Minister for Defence People and Veterans Tobias Ellwood said:
It’s right that we do everything we can to support those service personnel who have been severely wounded while serving our country.
This new framework will ease the transition into civilian life for the small number of military personnel who have been badly injured.
The joint approach between the MOD, the NHS, and local authorities to provide this comprehensive care demonstrates the Armed Forces Covenant in action.
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