Tories propose NHS help to army families

Soldiers would receive special help securing NHS treatment for their families under new plans from the Conservatives.

Interim proposals to be published later by a Tory policy commission will include help with maintaining army families' waiting list places when they move around.

They would also attract additional funding for their children's schooling under the measures drawn up by the military covenant commission.

The launch, to be attended by Falklands veteran Simon Weston, follows concerns about the recruitment and retention in the armed forces.

Many personnel are thought to be quitting because of the difficulties imposed on their families, who must move from area to area.

As well as being able to take their waiting list position with them to a new area, they would be guaranteed an NHS dentist under the Conservative plans.

The commission's report said: "The current unmitigated intensity of operations is having a significant impact on service family life and, inevitably, on effectiveness and retention.

"The Army Families Federation has highlighted the fact that coping whilst a family member is away from home is particularly challenging both emotionally and financially."

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