SUPPORT for the Armed Forces has been recognised at a unique signing ceremony.
Organisations from across the region came together today (Friday, November 9)) to sign the North East Armed Forces Community Charter.
The ceremony, in Sunderland, brought together signatories including the Association of North East Councils (ANEC), the Armed Forces, the Royal British Legion and representatives from business, health, the voluntary and community sector, the police, probation and prison services.
It aims to ensure better ways of understanding and meeting the needs of the Armed Forces community.
Councillor Jeff Reid, vice-chairman of the Association of North East Councils (ANEC), said: “Signing the charter makes the North-East the first UK region to have full coverage of the local community covenant.”
Andrew Drake MBE, from the Royal British Legion, added: “The signing of the North East Armed Forces Community Charter is particularly welcomed as a positive statement of support to those who serve in the Armed Forces and their families from within our region."
Brigadier Greville Bibby CBE, commander of the 15th (North East) Brigade, said the covenant has been embraced by the North-East in a way which had exceeded expectations.
“It is humbling to think of the commitment our partners have demonstrated in meeting the needs of service personnel and their families,” he added.
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