Falkirk Council's Support for Armed Forces Day Lacking Despite Commitment to Covenant

Strategic Insights -

Falkirk Council has made a commitment to honour the Armed Forces Covenant, which promises to support the members of the Armed Forces and veterans. However, despite this promise, the council's support for the Annual Armed Forces Day event organized by Ancre Somme Association Scotland (ASA) has been lacking. The event, held in Callendar Park, is a free event that attracts visitors of all ages. Last year's event was a huge success, but ASA Scotland secretary Tommy Davidson expressed disappointment at the lack of support from Falkirk Council. The council has signed the Armed Forces Covenant, but it seems that this commitment is not being put into action when it comes to supporting local events.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ancre Somme Association Scotland (ASA) organized the Armed Forces Day event in Callendar Park, which attracted visitors of all ages and featured various military displays, musical entertainment, and other activities.
  • Last year's event was a huge success, with 11.45am to 5pm being a successful time frame for the event.
  • Despite making a commitment to honour the Armed Forces Covenant, Falkirk Council failed to provide adequate support for the event, including a reduced hire fee at Callendar Park.
  • The council's decision not to provide full support has been met with disappointment by ASA Scotland secretary Tommy Davidson, who expressed hope that the council would reconsider its stance in the future.
  • In a previous statement, the council's spokesperson acknowledged that the council had contributed around £600 annually towards the Armed Forces Day event in Grangemouth and waived the full hire cost of Callendar Park last year.
  • The council's spokesperson also stated that the council offered a 50 per cent discount on room hire within Callendar House and a further £200 contribution from the Provost's Civic Fund.

Statistics:

  • Last year, Ancre Somme Association Scotland spent around £5000 to put on the Armed Forces Day event.
  • Falkirk Council contributed around £600 annually towards the Armed Forces Day event in Grangemouth.
  • The council waived the full hire cost of Callendar Park last year, resulting in a saving of around £2300 for the event organizers.
  • This year, the charity was asked to pay a reduced hire fee of £325, which is significantly below the standard charge.
  • Next year, Ancre Somme Association Scotland will be eligible for the council's standard discounted rate of £650, which applies to charitable events.

Sources:

  • Ancre Somme Association Scotland (ASA Scotland) website
  • Falkirk Council spokesperson's statement, [redacted]
  • Picture captions: Mark Ferguson (The Johnston Press), 2024 Armed Forces Day organised by the Ancre Somme Association Scotland in Callendar Park; Last year's event had lots of fun for all the family