ROYAL NAVY AND ROYAL MARINES CHILDREN'S FUND

That this House strongly supports the work of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Children's Fund, the only charity dedicated to helping the children of serving, and ex-serving naval services personnel; notes that the charity has been running for over 100 years and helps children deal with the long-term psychological, emotional, physical, financial and social impacts that can result from having a parent work in the naval services; commends the charity for helping over 1,500 children each year, especially when demand is increasing due to wars in Iraq and Afghanistan; believes that the Government should encourage local authorities to provide greater assistance for the children and families left vulnerable by the effects of conflict; calls on Ministers to take into account the unique pressures and challenges being faced by the children of serving and ex-serving personnel when formulating policies; and urges support for the excellent work of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Children's Fund.