BETTER support for Armed Forces veterans has been called for by local MP Rachel Gilmour after a Houses of Parliament reception for charity Help for Heroes.

The charity launched its ‘People's Promise’ four-point plan to tackle ‘broken and unfair systems’ letting down veterans, and urged policymakers to put veterans at the heart of the UK defence strategy amid growing global instability.

Help for Heroes believes supporting veterans is a fundamental part of national resilience and defence preparedness.

The reception was part of Armed Forces Week and brought together MPs, veterans, and supporters from across the UK.

Mrs Gilmour said: “I have added my support to the ‘People’s Promise to Veterans’ and will be talking to colleagues about what we can do to bring about lasting change.”

The UK has made a promise to veterans through the Armed Forces Covenant that nobody should be disadvantaged because of their service, although in practice delivery is seen as inconsistent.

Help for Heroes services director Rob Marston, who served 10 years in the Armed Forces, said: “As the world becomes more unstable, we are asking more and more of our Armed Forces.

“But, we cannot continue to do that while failing to provide the same sense of security to those who leave service.

“Most veterans go on to build fulfilling lives after service, but too many are still being let down by inconsistent systems, delays in care, financial insecurity, and barriers to support.

“The ‘People’s Promise’ is about turning good intentions into action.”

Mrs Gilmour’s Tiverton and Minehead constituency takes in West Somerset together with parts of the Culm Valley and Blackdown Hills and parishes bordering Wellington.

She said: “I am proud to support our Armed Forces and to stand with Help for Heroes in backing their promise to veterans.

“It was lovely to hear from the charity and some of its ambassadors.”