DISABILITY PENSIONS: Any colleagues who are receiving Disability Living Allowance (or their wives) should be aware of the probabililty that their spouse may easily qualify for the Carer's Allowance (£44.35 per week) if the claimant of the DLA is receiving at least the Middle Band (£39.35 per wek). Check out the Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) advice booklets DS 700 and Claim Form DS 700(1). You can also receive sound advice through the Helpline 0800 88 22 00.

Colleagues have also received good advice from the Veteran's Association (for those with Service Disability Claims). Please contact the Hon Treasurer (as above) should you require further information about accessing such help.

PENSION CHALLENGE The Combined Armed Forces Federation UK is in the process of challenging the Government over the fact that many members of the Armed Forces who left before qualifying for a full pension prior to 1975 are nevertherless entitled to a pro-rata pension based on the number of years served and the fact that salary levels were reduced below their civilian equivalent in order to provide them.