The First-tier Tribunal, War Pensions and Armed Forces Compensation Chamber is recruiting 9 recently retired or serving members of the armed services to sit as Service Members.The Tribunal hears appeals against decisions on War Pensions and the Armed Forces Compensation scheme. Service Members sit for at least 30 days a year, helping the Tribunal determine whether applicants are entitled to disablement pension or to supplementary allowances for mobility needs.
The Service Member provides specific expertise in Service matters both during the tribunal hearing and the deliberation and decision-making process.
Isabel McCord is a current Service Member. She previously served in the Army in a variety of roles:
“During my 32 years in the Army I was fortunate to work with many different Army cap badges as well as other Services. On leaving I wanted to contribute to the welfare of service people so I applied to become a tribunal member.
“I thoroughly enjoy the challenge of analysing the evidence and using the expertise of all members to give our appellants a fair hearing.”
Isabel explains in more detail what the Service Member role entails and the kind of cases the Tribunal deals with in a recent issue of Tribunals Journal.
How to apply
Recently retired or current members of the Armed Forces can apply. You will need at least seven years’ service with deployed operational experience, experience of supporting operations and responsibility for personnel matters.
You will need a wide understanding of the military ethos and working practices and will have had exposure to all three Armed Forces. Applicants may be:
- Lieutenant Commander, Squadron Leader or Major rank and above
- Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers of the Regular or Reserve Forces
James Watson is a Service Member who previously served in the Army for 36 years.
“My knowledge of the Armed Forces means I can help the other tribunal members understand the service related issues of the case.
“Being a Service member is an opportunity to give something back to the wider military community. I find the role tremendously rewarding and extremely stimulating. No two days are ever the same.”
Applications open on 16 May. Candidates will have two weeks to complete an online application form.
Find out more about the role and apply at the Judicial Appointments Commission website: https://www.judicialappointments.gov.uk/vacancies/131
