A local mental health charity has pledged a commitment to the armed forces community.

Mid and North East Essex Mind recently signed the Armed Forces Covenant, a promise to ensure armed forces personnel and their loved ones are treated fairly.

The Covenant is a voluntary agreement which organisations can opt to honour.

Ginny Idehen, CEO of Mid and North East Essex Mind, said: "We are delighted to demonstrate our commitment to the Armed Forces community and their families.

"Colchester is a major military base, and we have a responsibility to support such an important part of our community with their mental health and wellbeing."

The charity has initiated several programs to show its support for the forces community, including actively supporting the employment of veterans.

National events such as Armed Forces Day and the Poppy Appeal will also receive endorsement by Mid and North East Essex Mind.

The charity has additionally committed to finding the necessary funding to deliver mental health services to veterans, serving personnel and their dependents.

Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, Commander of Colchester Garrison, said: "I congratulate Mid and North East Essex Mind on signing up to the Armed Forces Covenant in declaring their support for the Armed Forces community."