As a long-time prominent advocate for armed forces children and families in Wales, Clwyd West MS Darren Millar, has welcomed news that more children and young people from Armed Forces and veteran families will be able to access help.
The Welsh Government has announced it is expanding the definition of the term ‘service child’ used to determine eligibility for support.
These changes will mean more children and young people from Armed Forces and veteran families can access help from this month.
As the founder, and former Chair, of the Cross-Party Group on Armed Forces and Cadets, Darren has long been campaigning for the change.
Commenting, he said:
"I am thrilled that after years of calling for more support for service children and young people, we are at last moving in the right direction.
"Throughout my 15 years as Chair of the Senedd Cross Party Group on Armed Forces and Cadets, I was actively involved in addressing the challenges faced by children of armed forces personnel, particularly regarding educational continuity and pastoral care when families move.
"It can be extremely challenging for service children and young people, having to rebuild their worlds with each family move.
"They have to sacrifice their stability so others can feel safe, it is therefore only fair that we repay them by providing them with the support they need and deserve."
At present, Welsh Government support is delivered primarily through Supporting Service Children in Education (SSCE) Cymru. However, following engagement with stakeholders including SSCE Cymru, the WLGA, Armed Forces Family Federations, and the Ministry of Defence Covenant Team, the Cabinet Secretary for Education has agreed to broaden the definition of a service child.
From this month:
· children of veterans will be eligible for support for up to six years after their parent leaves service (an increase from the current two years), aligning Wales with the definition used in England; and
· eligibility will extend to young people up to the age of 18, reflecting the Armed Forces Covenant duty.
The changes ensure greater parity across the UK, increase clarity for families moving between nations, and better reflect the ongoing impact service life can have on children and young people.
