Video raises awareness of Armed Forces Compensation Scheme
A new animated video is being released today to raise awareness of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme.
Armed Forces action figures that feature in the new Armed Forces Compensation Scheme video [Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2012]
Developed by the MOD in partnership with the Royal British Legion and the mental health charity Combat Stress the video raises awareness of the financial support available to those injured as a result of their service in a fun, quirky way.
It is specifically designed to engage young Armed Forces personnel, complementing the traditional methods of communication used such as PowerPoint presentations and booklets.
Based on a ‘Toy Story’ theme, the online three-minute video features the popular Armed Forces action figures undertaking a routine patrol that doesn’t quite go according to plan.
This new and innovative approach to raising awareness of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme has proven highly popular during test screenings.
The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme provides compensation for injury, illness and death caused by service.
Every award involves payment of a lump sum of between £1,200 and £570,000. Those with more serious injuries also receive a monthly income stream, known as a Guaranteed Income Payment, paid as an enhancement to their pension in recognition of a loss of future earnings as a result of their injury.
Andrew Robathan, Minister for Defence Personnel, Welfare and Veterans, said:
This important compensation scheme deals with some of the most serious consequences likely to be encountered by our Service personnel. As a former Army officer I know our brave personnel often face such situations with great humour.
The video has already been shown to injured servicemen and women at Headley Court who have given very positive feedback. I would like to pay tribute to the Royal British Legion and Combat Stress for their invaluable support to the production of this video.
Air Vice-Marshal David Murray, Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff (Personnel), said:
Previous communication campaigns to raise awareness of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme have been supported by leaflets, posters and information cards. While these have proven successful we wanted to try a new and more engaging way of communicating with personnel and their families.
Sue Freeth, the Royal British Legion’s Director of Health and Welfare, said:
It is vital that our servicemen and women who put themselves at risk know what support is available to them through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. We are confident this humorous video will stand out at briefings and stay in the minds of those who watch it.
The Legion offers practical support to those claiming under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, and is pleased to be working in partnership with the MOD and Combat Stress to bring this information to those who need it.
Peter Poole, Director of Strategy, Policy and Performance at Combat Stress, said:
As well as providing funds to those with physical injury, the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme is also available to men and women who have suffered from mental health problems as a result of service.
We hope that this imaginative new video will raise awareness of the scheme among the young Armed Forces personnel who need to hear it the most.
See Related Links for further information on the scheme or call the freephone helpline on 0800 169 2277 (UK only) or +44 1253 866 043 (overseas).