For the first time in the history of the Census, there will be a question on service in the Armed Forces following a campaign backed by Alan Mak MP working with The Royal British Legion.
Mr Mak is delighted that the Government has announced that the 2021 Census will now include a question to provide information on whether someone has served in HM Armed Forces.
The decision to include the question on the 2021 census will provide the Government and Legion, as well as public bodies, local authorities, and other military charities with valuable information to ensure they can best meet the needs of serving personnel, veterans and their families.
Havant MP and Havant Royal British Legion Branch Vice Chairman Alan Mak MP commented: “I’ve back the Armed Forces census campaign in Parliament since 2016 and I’m delighted it’s succeeded. Having a better understanding of the profile and needs of veterans is a key part of making sure our public services are tailored for our armed forces community. I welcome this historic change to the 2021 Census to include a question on the Armed Forces.”
Charles Byrne, Director-General of The Royal British Legion, said:
“This is something we have been striving towards for many years, it will have a huge impact on service personnel, veterans and their families well into the future, as the outcome will allow us to provide more effective care and support to those who are in need. We are delighted and are extremely grateful to everyone who has supported the campaign and helped us to achieve this historical success”
Constituents can find out more about the campaign by visiting the campaign website, www.rbl.org.uk/campaigns, or by posting their own pledge of support on social media using the #CountThemIn hashtag.
Picture: Alan Mak with armed forces veterans David and Bill
