AFC0076

Written evidence submitted by the Department for Work and Pensions

Thank you for your letter of 26 February to the Secretary of State. I have been asked to reply as the Minister in DWP responsible for armed forces issues.

As you would expect, DWP Ministers and officials have been working closely with the MoD as it has developed the details of its proposed Armed Forces Covenant Legislation.

DWP treats its existing responsibilities under the Armed Forces Covenant very seriously and already has a number of special rules and arrangements in place. These range from National Insurance Credits for forces spouses who have a gap in their records because they have accompanied their partner overseas; to exemptions to residency tests to those who have served abroad and their families; to a network of Armed Forces Champions in Jobcentres who provide expert help and support to those veterans who need it most.

We monitor the situation carefully and we are not aware of any area where the Armed Forces community currently suffers disadvantage, whether in benefits/pensions or access to employment programmes. However, as we reform and modernise our services, and make other changes, we will, of course, continue to consider the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant.

Baroness Sherlock OBE

Minister of State at the Department for Work and Pensions

17th March 2025