Money
The recession is a worrying time for most people but there is lots of help and advice available.
You shouldn't be financially disadvantaged as a result of your service. Financial top tips for service personnel gives help on credit ratings, mortgages and loans, motor and home insurance, mobile and TV contracts. If you feel you've been disadvantaged in this respect contact your Army or RAF Families Federation for advice.
If you're dealing directly with a provider find out if they've signed the Covenant and what they pledged. Identify yourself as a member of the Armed Forces community and be aware that front line staff may not know about the Covenant so you may need to be persistent and explain this.
General advice is avaliable from the independent Money Advice Service.
Jobcentre Plus and Universal Credit
As part of the Armed Forces Covenant the Department for Work and Pensions is improving the way current and former members of the armed forces and their families access Jobcentre Plus services. This includes having an armed forces champion in every Jobcentre Plus District to ensure that they provide support that meets the needs of the armed forces community.
Universal Credit is now in operation Lanarkshire. If you need help with your application contact your local Jobcentre Plus.
North Lanarkshire
North Lanarkshire Council has money and debt advice on their website.
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South Lanarkshire
The South Lanarkshire Council website has advice on their Work, money and benefits section.
You can also make and appointment with their Money Matters Advice Service to talk to an advisor about your finances.
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The Veterans Welfare Service
VWS can help with War Disablement Pensions and Armed Forces Compensation Scheme claims forms.
VWS is part of the Ministry of Defence’s and provides one-to-one welfare advice across the UK and Republic of Ireland. They work alongside in-service welfare providers and work closely with local authorities, voluntary organisations, service charities and the Department for Work and Pensions, ensuring that those leaving the Armed Forces and existing veterans and their families receive all the information and help they need to access the appropriate services and benefits.
Pensions advice
- Armed Services Advice Project (ASAP)
- Estimate your Armed Forces pension
- Naval, Army and RAF Families Federations
- Pensions for Veterans
- Veterans UK
Independent money advice