Forces veterans need better state care, says Royal British Legion

The Government is failing to properly care for soldiers returning from active service in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Royal British Legion will say today as it calls for improved conditions for the armed forces.

At the launch of its Honour The Covenant campaign, the charity will call upon ministers to provide troops with a fairer compensation system, better medical care and ensure that bereaved military families do not wait years for inquests.

The legion claims the Government is failing to uphold the Military Covenant, which states that soldiers, sailors and airmen should expect fair treatment from the state for serving their country and risking their lives. Many are left to struggle alone when they leave the forces, the legion adds.

The RBL's concerns are based on a poll among its almost 500,000 members. "Compensation should be generous and compassionate and we don't believe the current situation is," said Frances Done, the group's director-general.