The Surrey Civilian-Military Partnership Board met to discuss several ongoing initiatives, including the Armed Forces Covenant, the Surrey Reservist Campaign, and preparations for Remembrance Day. The board also reviewed the proposed work plan for 2025-26 and discussed future meeting arrangements.

Armed Forces Covenant

The board discussed the Armed Forces Covenant¹, a promise from the nation ensuring fair treatment for those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families.

Brigadier Paul Evans DL, gave an update on the Armed Forces Covenant. He noted that the Covenant continues to be a key focus, with efforts being made to strengthen relationships with local businesses and organisations to support the armed forces community. He highlighted the importance of raising awareness of the Covenant among Surrey residents and ensuring that veterans and their families have access to the services and support they need.

Surrey Reservist Campaign

The Surrey Reservist Campaign was discussed, which aims to encourage more Surrey residents to become reservists in the armed forces.

Major Paul Cody provided an update on the Surrey Reservist Campaign, reporting on the progress made in raising awareness of reservist opportunities and engaging with local employers to support their employees who are reservists. He noted the positive impact reservists can have on both the military and civilian sectors, bringing valuable skills and experience to their workplaces.

Remembrance Day

The board discussed preparations for Remembrance Day, which is held on the 11th of November each year.

Lt Col Michael Bysshe provided an update on the plans for Remembrance Day events across Surrey. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that these events are well-attended and respectful, providing an opportunity for the community to come together to remember and honour those who have served and sacrificed for their country. He noted that the Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey² would be attending several events across the county.

Proposed Work Plan 2025-26

The board reviewed and discussed the proposed work plan for 2025-26.

Louise Punter presented the proposed work plan for the upcoming year, outlining the board's key priorities and objectives. These include strengthening relationships with the military community, promoting the Armed Forces Covenant, and supporting initiatives that benefit veterans and their families. The board discussed the plan in detail, providing feedback and suggestions for improvement.

Future Meeting Arrangements

The board discussed the arrangements for future meetings, including dates, times, and locations.

Tim Hall, Chair of the Council, led a discussion on the future meeting arrangements, including the schedule for the upcoming year and potential locations for the meetings. The board agreed to continue meeting quarterly and to explore options for holding meetings in different locations across Surrey to increase accessibility and engagement.