Armed Forces
Supporting Our Armed Forces Community
Penrith Town Council is proud to support the Armed Forces community and to recognise the service and sacrifice of those who serve, or have served, in the Armed Forces, along with their families.
The Council plays an active role in commemoration, community events and practical support, ensuring that the Armed Forces community is recognised, included and treated fairly within the life of the town.
Commemoration and Civic Events
Each year, Penrith Town Council:
- Organises and funds Armistice Day services
- Leads the Remembrance Sunday Parade and Civic Service, working closely with veterans’ organisations, cadet forces, reserve units and service charities
- Promotes national initiatives such as the Poppy Appeal
- Marks significant national occasions, including VE Day commemorations and relevant Royal events
These events ensure that remembrance remains a visible and meaningful part of Penrith’s civic life, with opportunities for veterans, serving personnel, families and residents to come together.
Armed Forces Day
Penrith Town Council organises Penrith Armed Forces Day, celebrating the contribution of serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets and their families. The event provides an opportunity for the wider community to show appreciation, learn more about the Armed Forces, and engage with support organisations.
Practical Support and Grant Funding
Penrith Town Council has supported the Armed Forces community through funding for local projects, including initiatives aimed at improving wellbeing and reducing isolation, such as community support activities.
Armed Forces Covenant
On Armistice Day in November 2025, Penrith Town Council formally pledged its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant.
The Armed Forces Covenant is a national promise to ensure that members of the Armed Forces community are treated fairly and are not disadvantaged as a result of their service.
Through this commitment, the Town Council has pledged to:
- Ensure Councillors and staff are aware of the Armed Forces Covenant and the Council’s responsibilities
- Support and promote Armed Forces events, including Armed Forces Day, Remembrance activities and the Poppy Appeal
- Promote local support networks for veterans and the wider Armed Forces community
- Ensure fair access to Council services, recognising issues such as mobility or frequent relocation
- Invite members of the Armed Forces community to civic events and significant town commemorations
- Support reservists and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers by offering special paid leave to fulfil their duties
- Offer guaranteed interviews to eligible veterans who meet essential criteria and are within 12 months of leaving service
The Covenant does not seek to give special treatment, but to ensure that members of the Armed Forces community are placed in a position comparable to other residents, and that any disadvantage arising from service life is recognised and reduced.