I’m writing this week’s column in the run up to Remembrance weekend. An important time to focus our thoughts on our armed forces, both serving and retired. And those who never made it home.

But this is also an opportunity to think about how we as a nation continue to support both those still serving and those who have moved into civilian life – our veterans.

The world remains dangerous – in some ways growing in danger. Last week’s Budget included information on defence spending, but I do believe it is important that as well as having the ambition of increasing it to 2.5 per cent the government should also set out its path to hitting that target.

We also heard that military families in receipt of the continuity of education allowance for school fees will receive mitigation from the VAT changes that come into force from January.

The ‘Armed Forces Covenant’ is essentially a promise from the nation to those who serve or who have served, and their families, which says we will ensure they are treated fairly and not disadvantaged.

It’s a very positive thing – when it is working well – and I commend all the employers and public bodies and others who are truly committed to it.

More than one in ten East Hampshire households includes a veteran, which is considerably above the national average. Veterans do, did or will need differing levels of support at some stage to help them make a life for themselves outside of the military.

Having spoken to many, I’m acutely aware that understanding the help available and what you might be entitled to can become a bit of a stumbling block.

This is why I have joined up with EHDC and the Royal British Legion to host the first East Hampshire Veterans Festival on January 24 in Petersfield Festival Hall. The purpose is to bring all the support available to veterans – be it help on pensions, housing, employment, health, benefits, education and much more – under one roof.

In addition to sector experts, also present will be charities such as Beyond the Wire, who I met recently. This charity helps those that have lost a family member in conflict; helping to navigate the complexities of a life away from the military.

I really hope that this event helps put our local military and veteran community in touch with support that is out there.

As we mark Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day once again we reflect that we will forever owe our service men and women a debt of gratitude.