To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to help improve support for ex-service women in the East Grinstead and Uckfield Constituency.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to help improve support for ex-service women.

Women are a crucial part of the Armed Forces community, both through the value of their service and their contribution to society as veterans. Engaging and supporting the women who have served in our Armed Forces in East Grinstead and Uckfield and across the country, is an important part of our new Veterans Strategy, to ensure they have access to support that understands their in-service experiences, and that any barriers to accessing support are addressed.

Amongst the commitments in the strategy are the establishment of a new women veterans’ forum and an oral history project. The forum will ensure that the voices of women veterans inform how government responds to areas significant to their lives. The oral history project will capture the experiences of women veterans, showcasing their role in defence and their contribution to society after service.

Last year, we launched the £50 million VALOUR programme, which will make it easier for all veterans to access the care and support they deserve wherever they live in the UK. The first phase of VALOUR-Recognised Centres will open shortly and the application process for the second round of funding is ongoing. As it develops, we are working hard to ensure that the VALOUR network is inclusive of all veterans’ needs and experiences, including women.