In monitoring progress in the delivery of SVC recommendations to the Scottish Government it is important to consider the impact on those I aim to support, namely veterans and their families. Their lives should benefit from the changing policy and practices that result from these recommendations.

The action necessary to make things better can be complex, often calling for joined-up thinking and collaboration across different agencies and change doesn’t happen overnight but we are starting to see real improvement. That is down to the effort of many individuals and organisations who have got behind the recommendations and worked together to influence and deliver change. That should be acknowledged and celebrated. This separate report on impact sets out all SVC recommendations fully achieved as at September 2025. Many more have progressed and are showing as partially implemented or implemented but work should continue to embed in my main progress report.

You can view all SVC recommendations fully achieved below.

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A sombre and emotional service at the National Memorial Arboretum to mark 15 years since the withdrawal of British forces from Iraq. It was an opportunity to offer deepest gratitude to all who served in Operation TELIC, and the families who supported them.

It was a particular honour to meet Audrey and Laura, the Chairs of the Army and RAF Widows Associations. I was delighted to catch up with the Veterans Commissioners of Wales and Northern Ireland and the Chair of Poppyscotland. A former RNEC classmate Cdr Michael Shaw RN shared his story in one of the powerful films shown, and it was great to see him.

Also a huge honour to meet Pegasus, mascot of the Parachute Regiment who was turned out very smartly, as always.
A sombre and emotional service at the National Memorial Arboretum to mark 15 years since the withdrawal of British forces from Iraq. It was an opportunity to offer deepest gratitude to all who served in Operation TELIC, and the families who supported them. It was a particular honour to meet Audrey and Laura, the Chairs of the Army and RAF Widows Associations. I was delighted to catch up with the Veterans Commissioners of Wales and Northern Ireland and the Chair of Poppyscotland. A former RNEC classmate Cdr Michael Shaw RN shared his story in one of the powerful films shown, and it was great to see him. Also a huge honour to meet Pegasus, mascot of the Parachute Regiment who was turned out very smartly, as always.
1 day ago
I was delighted to meet some of the Association of Royal Yachtsmen on board HMY BRITANNIA during their annual maintenance week. As well as carrying out some maintenance jobs it is a great opportunity for those who formerly served in the Royal Yacht to share experiences and camaraderie.

@royalyachtbritannia
I was delighted to meet some of the Association of Royal Yachtsmen on board HMY BRITANNIA during their annual maintenance week. As well as carrying out some maintenance jobs it is a great opportunity for those who formerly served in the Royal Yacht to share experiences and camaraderie. @royalyachtbritannia
1 week ago
Following my recent participation in the 80th Anniversary of the Edinburgh Branch of the Association of Wrens, my latest blog reflects on the value of connection, comradeship and common experience in the veteran community. 

Read more in my latest blog, link in bio - SVC news and blogs 🔗
Following my recent participation in the 80th Anniversary of the Edinburgh Branch of the Association of Wrens, my latest blog reflects on the value of connection, comradeship and common experience in the veteran community. Read more in my latest blog, link in bio - SVC news and blogs 🔗
1 week ago
It was a true privilege to join the Army Widows’ Association for their AGM dinner on Friday. It was a very special opportunity to meet so many of the remarkable members of the Association who have given so much for our country and support each other with so much warmth, humour and friendship.

@armywidows
It was a true privilege to join the Army Widows’ Association for their AGM dinner on Friday. It was a very special opportunity to meet so many of the remarkable members of the Association who have given so much for our country and support each other with so much warmth, humour and friendship. @armywidows
1 week ago
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