Council shows support to the armed forces community during Armed Forces Week
Cheshire West and Chester Council is proud to recognise and celebrate the contribution of our armed forces community, including supporting serving personnel, reservists, veterans, cadets, and their families. Through a range of initiatives and partnerships, the council supports local opportunities that promote wellbeing, employment and community connection.
In recognition of this work, Cheshire West and Chester Council was awarded the prestigious Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award in 2023. This honour reflects the positive role that the Council has played in pledging, demonstrating and advocating support to defence and the Armed Forces Community, as well as its ongoing commitment to the values of the Armed Forces Covenant.
The Armed Forces Day flag will be flown throughout the week at Cheshire West and Chester Council buildings, at the Northwich Town Council offices on Church Road. A number of Council buildings will also be lit in red, white and blue on Armed Forces Day as well as the Eastgate Clock and Newgate in Chester.
The Lord Mayor of Chester and the Chairman of Cheshire West and Chester Council will together raise the Armed Forces Day flag outside Chester Town Hall on Monday 22 June, in the presence of military and cadet force personnel, local veteran organisations and local civic dignitaries
The Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Margaret Parker, said
As a city with deep ties to our Armed Forces, we are proud to thank all military personnel, past and present for their service, dedication and commitment. In a time of global conflict and uncertainty, we are reminded of the importance of coming together in unity. My civic theme of creating harmony in our communities reflects the belief that, by respecting and supporting one another, we can help build a more peaceful and understanding world, starting right here at home. On this Armed Forces Week, I am proud to lead the City of Chester in giving thanks to our armed forces
Offering her reflections, Delyth Curtis, Chief Executive of Cheshire West and Chester Council said
We are proud to support Armed Forces Day and to recognise the dedication, professionalism and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in the UK Armed Forces. Their commitment to protecting the nation’s interests, both at home and overseas, is invaluable. This week provides an important opportunity to express our sincere thanks for their service
The Council will also be holding Armed Forces Community Network coffee gatherings for employees and councillors with a connection to the military, providing an opportunity to come together, share experiences and strengthen support networks.
Reservists play a vital role in supporting the UK’s defence capability, balancing civilian careers with military service. Reserves Day will be held on Wednesday 24 June, when the Council will show its support to the men and women of our reserve forces and raise awareness of the important work they do.
As part of its commitment, the council is also highlighting a range of practical support available locally for the Armed Forces community.
Brio Leisure offers discounted Work Fit memberships for veterans, complimentary off-peak memberships for serving personnel and reservists, and free membership for one year for those medically discharged (terms and conditions apply), helping individuals to stay active and support their wellbeing.
On Armed Forces Day, serving military personnel, reservists, veterans and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers can also travel free on Chester’s Park and Ride service when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger, making it easier to attend events across the city.
To access these offers, serving personnel will be asked to show their military ID card, while other eligible individuals can present either a Defence Privilege Card or an HM Armed Forces Veterans Card.
The Council also continues to work in partnership with the Armed Forces Community Support Charity, funding regular NAAFI Break drop-in sessions at Ellesmere Port Reserves Centre, Dale Barracks in Chester and Winsford Library. These sessions provide a welcoming space for veterans and their families, helping to reduce isolation and offering one-to-one support for a range of personal challenges.
Cheshire West and Chester Council recognises and values the dedication and sacrifices made by the Armed Forces community. Armed Forces Week provides an opportunity to celebrate their contribution, and the Council remains committed to supporting those who serve, have served, and their families now and in the future.