Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart, has called for greater recognition of military children in Northern Ireland as the Month of the Military Child draws to a close

Carla Lockhart MP • April 30, 2025

April is recognised across the UK as the Month of the Military Child – a time to honour the incredible strength, resilience and sacrifice of children whose parents serve in the Armed Forces. While the initiative is officially marked on 25th April in England and Wales, there is currently no formally designated date in Northern Ireland.

To mark the month, a special purple heart badge has been created by the Empire Poppy Store – purple symbolising the blend of all service colours, and the dandelion representing the ability of military children to thrive wherever they are rooted.


Carla Lockhart MP said:


“Throughout April, we’ve celebrated our military children, young people who quietly carry the weight of service life alongside their parents. Their ability to adapt, remain strong and support their families is nothing short of remarkable.


“I was delighted to receive my purple heart badge. A small but powerful way to show support and raise awareness. I’d encourage everyone to consider wearing one, not just during April, but throughout the year.


“Importantly, I have written to the Ministry of Defence to call for an official date to be designated in Northern Ireland. It’s essential that military children here are recognised equally and visibly across all parts of the UK.


“As this month of recognition ends, let’s carry its spirit forward. Let us continue to highlight the Military Child and ensure their voices are heard and their sacrifices remembered.”


To find out more, visit: https://www.asauk.org/military-child


To purchase a badge: https://empirepoppy.store/products/month-of-the-military-child-enamel-badge

Share

By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has tabled Early Day Motion 2028 in the House of Commons, calling on the Government to reject any proposals to introduce mandatory digital identification (ID) cards across the United Kingdom.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to the strength and determination of those living with Parkinson’s following her attendance as guest speaker at the County Armagh Parkinson’s Group.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to the strong sense of community across the area following a busy Saturday spent visiting local events in support of two fantastic causes.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to the pupils, staff, and community of Hart Memorial Primary School, Portadown, following a special 90th Anniversary Service of Thanksgiving held in St Columba’s Church, Portadown.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed a series of decisive steps announced by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA to tackle the growing impact of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across Northern Ireland, including here in Upper Bann.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 22, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed news that three local bands have been awarded a total of £26,514 under the Department for Communities’ Funding for Marching Bands Scheme. 
By Carla Lockhart MP October 21, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has once again voiced her strong support for the Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaign, standing with women from across the United Kingdom who continue to seek justice after being unfairly impacted by changes to the State Pension age.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 19, 2025
New Title
By Carla Lockhart MP October 17, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart was honoured to join the McKeever family from Long Meadow Farm, during this week’s Royal visit by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
By Carla Lockhart MP October 15, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has expressed deep concern following confirmation that an invasive Asian Hornet was discovered recently in the Dundonald area.