Injured soldiers' compensation rise welcomed

10:20am Friday 25th July 2008

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ARMY personnel support groups in Wiltshire are backing Government plans to improve compensation packages for gravely injured soldiers.

Better compensation offers heads a list of measures announced by Defence Secretary Des Browne, aimed at improving the level of support personnel and their families receive, with an emphasis on healthcare, housing and education.

The maximum compensation payment made to injured servicemen and women will double from £285,000 to £570,000, on top of a life income payment.

Free university education for those leaving the forces after six years will be provided, along with improved access to school places for services children.

Forces Reunited, a website dedicated to keeping people in contact with friends made in the forces, was started by a businessman from Trowbridge.

Domonic Hayhoe, managing director of the company, said he was "delighted that the Government is taking the issues that face the British Armed Forces and their families seriously".

Mr Hayhoe, who is ex-forces himself, said: "Servicemen and women risk their lives for their country and deserve far more support than they have been receiving.

"Hopefully, this will go some way towards showing the Armed Forces that their hard work is appreciated."

The Army Families Federation, an independent voice for forces families across the globe, is also based in Wiltshire.

Melanie Pullan, director of communications, thinks the changes are a positive move forward.

"It's an excellent step in the right direction.

"This shows that the Government is willing to support injured soldiers, giving them better security for the future."

Mrs Pullan said the improvements would bring the forces compensation in line with other areas.

"The payouts are now more on par with people who suffer injuries in other ways," she said.

"Hopefully with agreement from the parties, measures have been put in place to make sure the promises are delivered."