ADUR Council chairman Peter Metcalfe is to become the district’s Forces Champion when his term of office comes to an end next month.
The council, along with many others around the country, has created the new new role, which Mr Metcalfe has been asked to fill when his chairmanship comes to an end on May 16.
“When I heard about this new position, I couldn’t wait to get cracking,” said Peter.
“Being a veteran myself, I know how difficult it can be for some to make the adjustment from forces life to Civvy Street.
“Having champions in every Town Hall is an excellent initiative, it can make a huge difference to a section of our society that has been let down for too long.
“When you’re asking our sons and daughters or loved ones, to risk their lives for the country, it’s only right that they are given the treatment and service they deserve.
“So, through me, the council will be providing a one-stop shop, where advice and help can be easily provided from one source and not be moved from pillar to post.”
Peter added he had already spoken to Martin Johnson, of the British Legion Bikers, who had also agreed to give a helping hand when required.
“Veterans are believed to make up at least 10 per cent of the prison population in England and Wales and six per cent of the UK homeless,” said Mr Metcalfe.
“In the past six years, more than 28,000 services personnel have filled for compensation, to help them cope with combat injuries from Iraq or Afghanistan, which just shows the scale of the help that’s needed.”
Mr Metcalfe made the announcement at the full meeting of Adur Council on Thursday, the last he will chair.
He explained to councillors his role would be as a liaison between people who are coming out of the forces and their families.
“I can point them in the right direction,” he told the meeting, explaining he would be working with local Royal British Legion branches.