A survey taken in South Kesteven to identify the needs of the Armed Forces community has received high-profile backing from the Government's Veterans' Minister.

Johnny Mercer MP, the Minister for Military Personnel and Veterans in the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and Minister for Veterans' Affairs in the Cabinet Office, confirmed his support via video at the Armed Forces community survey launch last Friday.

The survey, conducted earlier this year, reached out to people with a connection to the British Armed Forces on behalf of South Kesteven District Council, Rutland County Council and Harborough District Council.

Focussing on all aspects of military life, the survey attracted more than 700 responses across the three council areas.

Over half of the people who took part were veterans and 25 per cent were currently serving or a reservist.

Attendees at Friday's launch heard Johnny Mercer express his thanks for the three authorities' joint action.

He said: "A massive thank you for what you've done on behalf of the MOD and the whole veterans' community in your efforts to really understand the challenges and make the transition easier for people who are leaving the Armed Forces] and make sure the Armed Forces Covenant is honoured in your part of the world."

A further video message of support came from Lt Col Keith Spiers of 7th Infantry Brigade & HQ East [The Desert Rats].

For SKDC, Armed Forces Champion Cllr Dean Ward said: "This survey report is an extremely valuable resource, illustrating what a significant military community we have and providing a detailed insight into the issues our armed forces personnel, and their families, face.

"We note and welcome the report's findings, which will help us to better support members of the armed forces family and treat them fairly in line with the aims of the Military Covenant.

"We will share the report's findings across South Kesteven District Council, and with our partners, so that it can inform our approach to relevant issues over housing, employment, integration and access to services, notably on mental health and wellbeing."

SKDC, Rutland County Council and Harborough District Council have all signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant, a formal commitment to support the Armed Forces community, and the authorities share an Armed Forces Officer to pursue their joint aims.

You can view the Armed Forces Covenant Survey Findings at www.southkesteven.gov.uk/AFCsurveyresults or by using the red button under this story.