Rolling out ID cards to Britain’s war hero veterans could take a century at current speed
ROLLING out ID cards to Britain's war hero veterans could take a CENTURY at the current speed.
Nearly two million former forces men and women were promised them in a bid to help secure quicker access to health, housing and charity services.
But despite rolling out the programme three years ago, the operation has seen just 56,194 dished out so far - 3 per cent of the estimated total.
At the current rate, it could take more than 125 years for every veteran to get one.
Cards are now issued as standard when serving personnel leave the forces, but the rollout to veterans has slowed after lengthy checks to make sure people aren't making false claims.
Earlier this month newly reappointed Veterans minister, Johnny Mercer admitted there had been "technical challenges" in introducing it - but promised the rollout would be done within the next 12 months as he ramped up the programme.
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He said: “I am determined to deliver on that even if it breaks me because we have to get that over the line."
The digital service will start from the new year.
But Shadow Veterans Minister, Rachel Hopkins hit out at the snails' pace speed.
She said: "These figures are further evidence that while the Veterans’ Minister likes to talk, he has actually changed very little for our veterans.
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"The veterans ID card is supposed to help our society keep its promise with those who serve by ensuring quick access to services like healthcare. But the Conservatives have delivered just a fraction of the cards needed.
"Our veterans don’t need empty promises, they need action." A government spokesperson said: "The rollout of Veteran ID cards is accelerating.
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"From next year, veterans will be able to access our new digital service which will enable them to quickly and easily verify their status online, playing a vital role in making sure those who need targeted support get fast access to a range of government services, from health to housing, as well as charity services.
"We have invested more than £1 million into the service and look forward to delivering real change to the lives of our veterans."