October 2023
Dear Constituent,
Thank you for taking the time to contact me.
My ministerial colleagues and I recognise the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who serve in our Armed Forces, which is why the Government has done more for veterans than any of its predecessors.
As you will know, many veterans have access to a number of pension benefits and, in the unfortunate event they face injury when serving, compensation schemes too. War pensions and Pension Credit are both designed to help with day-to-day living costs, however, in recognition of the sacrifices made by members of His Majesty’s forces, £10 per week of any such pension is ignored in the calculation of a Pension Credit award. This is a more favourable approach than to other forms of income, such as a personal pension.
It is my view, and that of the Government, that the best way to ease cost of living pressures is to tackle inflation. To this end, the Chancellor has put forward a plan to halve inflation this year and lay the foundations for long-term growth to improve living standards for everyone, including veterans and personnel.
You may also be interested to know that the Defence Discount Service provides savings and discounts for members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and defence community.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Best wishes,
Angela Richardson MP
Member of Parliament for Guildford, Cranleigh and our villages