About the Covenant
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise made by the nation, recognising the unique obligations and sacrifices of those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces. It affirms that they and their families should be treated fairly.
The Armed Forces Community includes the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army, Royal Air Force, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, Merchant Naval Seafarers, veterans, families of current service personnel, and bereaved families.
A veteran is someone who has served at least one full day in uniform, or a Merchant Naval Seafarer who has supported UK military operations. Veterans may have been regular service personnel, reservists, or completed National Service.
The Armed Forces Covenant website offers comprehensive information and support resources for the Armed Forces community.
The Covenant Legal Duty is a legal obligation on certain public organisations—including local authorities, governing bodies of specific state schools, NHS bodies, and others—to give due regard to the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant when delivering functions related to healthcare, education, and housing.
Highland Covenant Partnership
The Highland Armed Forces and Veterans’ Community Covenant Partnership unites stakeholders from across Highland and, in some cases, Scotland. It meets twice annually and primarily focuses on:
- Promoting the Armed Forces Covenant
- Coordinating support services
- Championing local initiatives and advocacy
Highland Armed Forces Champion
Armed Forces Champions are appointed across various organisations to serve as ambassadors for the local Armed Forces community, raising awareness and understanding of the Covenant. The current Highland Council Champion is Councillor Leslie-Anne Niven, who acts as the contact point for Covenant-related matters and works to ensure the Council upholds its principles.
Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust
The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust manages impactful programmes, including the administration of the Armed Forces Covenant Fund.
The fund primarily supports four themes:
- Enhancing non-core healthcare services for veterans
- Removing barriers to family life
- Providing additional support, both during and after service, for those in need
- Fostering the integration of military and civilian communities, enabling the Armed Forces community to participate fully as citizens