Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their families are a hugely important part of the community in St Helens. But currently, we don’t know enough about them or their needs.
That’s why I’m supporting the Royal British Legion’s Count Them In campaign, calling for extra information to be gathered on the Armed Forces in the next census in 2021.
It is estimated that there are currently over 6.5 million members of the Armed Forces community living in the UK, representing about a tenth of the population.
However, little is currently known about the exact numbers, location and needs of this significant group.
Liverpool City Region has pledged its support to the campaign and other authorities should follow suit.
Including new questions on the next census would provide public bodies, local authorities, and charities with valuable information to ensure they are able to deliver the best services they can for the Armed Forces community.