Up to 3000 military Reservists have been mobilised by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to support public services as part of the COVID Support Force.
At the moment, only Reservists with specialist skills that meet specific requests for help from other Government departments will be called out.
COVID Support Force: the MOD’s contribution to the coronavirus response
They will be used in a range of roles, such as providing medical and logistical support for the NHS; acting as liaison officers; and deploying specialist skills such as engineering and accounting.
Reservists already working in the NHS or other front line roles will not be used.
Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey said:
“Our Reservists are a truly remarkable group of people; each with their own skills and experience from their civilian careers beyond the armed forces.
“At times like these, to be able to draw on that pool of talent and expertise is invaluable. I know that our Reservists will answer the nation’s call with real enthusiasm and will play a key part in our response to COVID-19.”
The Reserve Forces: on call to protect the UK
For more information on the mobilisation of Reserve forces during COVID-19 please see the letter from the Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff (Reserves and Cadets)
