FROM this week Dorset's military veterans applying for social housing will be given the chance to identify themselves as veterans, as part of the Armed Forces covenant to ensure they get fairer treatment.

Those struggling with mental health will also be given the same priority as their peers with physical injuries.

The new moves were announced by MP for Bournemouth East and Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Tobias Ellwood, as fresh figures revealed that over the next ten years, the number of former service personnel in Great Britain is expected to decrease by around one million, to approximately 1.6 million by 2028. Estimates put the number of former service personnel currently residing in Britain at around 2.5 million.

As well as the reduction in size, the age and gender profile of the ex-forces community is also expected to change. The percentage of veterans of working age, between 16-64, is projected to rise from 38 per cent to 44 per cent, while the percentage of women is set to increase from 10 per cent to 13 per cent.

The new data projections will inform the government's first ‘Strategy for our Veterans’ which sets out the key areas of support for those who have left the armed forces. The strategy identifies six key areas where support is most needed over the next ten years, including community and relationships, employment and skills, health and wellbeing, finance and debt, housing, and contact with the law.

All relevant Government departments have a responsibility to ensure that the military community is treated fairly, and not disadvantaged by their service as part of the Armed Forces Covenant. This includes access to housing and healthcare, as well as employment and education support.

Tobias Ellwood said: "The figures reveal important insight into the potential needs of our future veteran community, and will help us to continue to step up our support for those who have served this country.

"While the vast majority of ex-service personnel go to live happy, healthy and successful lives, it’s right that we work across Governments to make sure veterans can access the services they need."