Personnel retention: a couple of new strategies

In the light of growing concerns about the retention of experienced personnel, Defence Secretary Des Browne has announced two new measures aimed at rewarding those who stay on in the Armed Forces.

The Commitment Bonus, which encourages personnel below officer level to extend their service in the Armed Forces, will almost treble (up to a maximum of £15,000) for those who have been in the Armed Forces for four years and stay on for an additional five years. However these bonuses will be taxable and will only be paid out after eight years service (i.e. the current upfront payments will cease).

A new £20million pilot scheme has been launched which will offer more affordable home ownership for Service personnel and their families. The MoD will work with private companies and public bodies to identify the most suitable approach, which is likely to be based on shared equity or rent to buy arrangements.

Link> MoD Defence News: New measures to reward and retain Forces personnel
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Link> MoD: Low Cost Housing for Service Personnel
Link> MoD: Affordable housing scheme extended for Service personnel