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Armed Forces Covenant

CC logoWhat is the Isle of Man Armed Forces Covenant?

The Armed Forces Covenant is a declaration of support for Island residents who serve, or have served, in the British Armed Forces. The goal of the covenant is to bring together charities, businesses, communities and the military in a pledge of support for those service and ex-service personnel.

It is about removing barriers to accessing services, not positive discrimination or preferential treatment.

Visit the Ministry of Defence website for more information about the Covenant.

The Government has appointed an Armed Forces Champion, currently Hon. Juan Watterson MHK as a point of contact for people wanting to know more about the Covenant. 

How are we supporting the Covenant?

  • Providing financial and logistical support to the Island’s cadet movement
  • Building working links between the Isle of Man NHS and UK to ensure forces specific needs are met - especially in mental health
  • Supporting reservists in the Isle of Man Public Service with special leave
  • Removing barriers to accessing the housing waiting list, just because of service in the UK or further overseas.
  • Support for service housing projects such as Ian Cannel Court and SSAFA supported housing
  • Removing barriers in the work permit system to forces personnel who have served off Island.
  • Free postage to BFPO addresses by the IOM Post Office 
  • Encourage activities which help to integrate the Armed Forces community into local life.

The Isle of Man Armed Forces Network

The Isle of Man has a long history of links with the Armed Forces links – from the Battle of Trafalgar to present day. This is evident at sites such as RAF Jurby, but also in our ties to the North West Reserve Forces & Cadets Association, HMS Ramsey and in 12 Regiment Royal Artillery receiving the Freedom of Douglas.

The Island has a strong community of ex-Servicemen including the SSAFA, Royal Artillery Association and RAF Association. There are a number of charities working locally and nationally to raise funds and awareness – the Royal British Legion, Help for Heroes and the Army Benevolent Fund.

How can local people help?

Local people already support the Armed Services community by:

  • fundraising
  • attending military events and celebrations
  • visiting local tourist attractions like the Manx Aviation Preservation Society

We can continue this support by keeping up our fundraising efforts, attending Armed Forces Day and Remembrance Services, and offering practical support to any of the Armed Forces community and their families.

The benefits are intended to be mutual, with the local Armed Forces community committed to getting involved in local projects, educational and sporting events.  Some members have volunteered to talk to school children about their experiences in the Armed Forces.

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