Able Magazine

Has anyone else read in the press about the soldiers and forces guys who have been out in Iraq and Afghanistan and returned injured or disabled? Is it right that they should receive big payouts to help them with medical support for the rest of their lives? I think it is, because they've fought for their country but what does everyone else think?

As HM Government was their employer at the time, it's only proper that they get money for injury caused during the carrying out of their job. And there should be no scrimping on ensuring all our soldiers and Armed Forces have the support they need during the rest of their lives. Someone who has risked life and limb for the benefit of us all shouldn't be left out on their own.

Of course, all disabled people should be in a situation where they don't have to scrimp and save or do without the basics of food or heating just because of the costs of their disability.

This from the BBC today:

More money for injured UK troops

Personnel hurt in the line of duty will benefit from the change
The most seriously injured troops will receive more money under changes to the armed forces compensation scheme.
Those hurt will receive up to £285,000 for all injuries suffered in a single incident - rather than just the three most serious, as had been the case.

Most recently, Lance Bombardier Ben Parkinson, injured by a landmine in Afghanistan, received the maximum sum of £152,150 under the existing scheme.

Payments will be paid retrospectively back to April 2005.

Mr Parkinson is reportedly one of the most seriously injured soldiers to survive.

He lost both his legs as well as suffering a brain injury, fractures to his skull, cheekbone, nose, jaw, pelvis and vertebrae, as well as serious damage to his spleen and chest.

As an ex-soldier I really feel for these guys who return to absolute turmoil, after being injured with very little after-care in comparison with the US for example. Those injured in the line of duty do receive a financial payout from the MOD, but In no way way is it comparable to a civilian payout of a smilar nature and I think for me anyway that that is the issue. PARITY.
The particular soldier you mention in the article is being cared for by his parents who are considering re-mortgaging/selling their home in order to ensure their sons future care needs are met.
Many soldiers are and will return to UK with PTSD which again can lead to major personality changes, and in turn can affect their general wellbeing and disrupt their family lives. These guys will not get the appropriate help or compensation they deserve.
The highest proportion of people living on the streets are ex-soldiers and we as a country should be ashamed that we do not do enough to help these men & women.