A FALKLANDS veteran is giving a helping hand to sick and injured armed forces personnel.

Keith Jackson, now a financial advisor, is volunteering his time and expertise to provide guidance through a scheme known as Forces MoneyPlan.

The initiative provides information to help sick and injured service people and veterans take greater control of their financial affairs.

Mr Jackson – from Cross Hills – said that with his forces background, he was delighted to get involved with the venture.

“The Forces MoneyPlan is extremely close to my heart and as soon as I heard about it I jumped at the chance to sign-up,” he said.

“Forty years ago I served in the Royal Navy and was involved in the Falklands Task Force, joining-up with other young lads.

“Together we served on the ships in the Falklands conflict and several of my fellow shipmates paid the ultimate price.

“Today, I still feel a personal affinity to the service. The sense of belonging never leaves you.”

Mr Jackson, who works for Leeds-based Allied Financial Services, added: “I am also a fully accredited member of the Society of Later Life Advisers, so I am trained to deal with potentially-vulnerable people.

“This is the first time, however, that in my capacity as a financial advisor I can give-up my time to assist fellow service personnel.

“I really feel that I am doing some good in helping them.”

The Forces MoneyPlan scheme came about as a result of a partnership, begun in 2007, between the Personal Finance Society and Citizens Advice to provide financial guidance to people who would not normally be able to access professional help.

Allied Financial Services says it actively encourages its staff to give back to the local community, with ongoing initiatives.

Anyone interested in supporting the Forces MoneyPlan scheme can learn more by searching online at thepfs.org.