Benefits boost for forces’ veterans

Armed forces’ veterans in the South Hams will not have their war pensions taken into account when they apply for housing benefit.

The district council has underlined its support for veterans, joining ranks with a number of other local councils in taking service pensions out of the benefits equation.

Members of the council’s executive committee voted unanimously to adopt a ‘disregard policy’ which means income from war pensions won’t form part of calculations for benefits.

The government leaves the decision in the hands of individual councils.

Cllr Nicky Hopwood (Con, Woolwell) said the cost to the council would be a ‘minimal’ £7,200 in the coming year, and added: “This is another way that councils can support residents as well as recognising those veterans who have served our country and kept us safe.”