News

Improving understanding of Scotland’s veteran community

National Records of Scotland has today published data about Scotland’s veteran community that was collected in Scotland’s Census in 2022.

The statistics are a valuable resource in providing a greater understanding of the make-up of Scotland's veteran community, with figures revealing that 176,100 people in Scotland identified themselves as veterans within the Census, representing a range of ages and living across all parts of Scotland.

However, it is important to note that this is just the start of the publication of much more detailed data. It’s hoped that the results will help build a clearer picture than ever of the veteran community in Scotland, which in due course, will allow service providers, policy makers and decision takers to act on verified and accurate information, and ensure that service planning and delivery meets the needs of our diverse veteran community.

The question about whether people had served in the Armed Forces was included in the Census for the first time ever, following a period of campaigning by veteran groups and charities.

As well as dispelling some of the myths and stereotypes about our veterans, the data should help to ensure that at a national and a local level, no one in Scotland is disadvantaged as a result of their Service.

I’d like to thank all of the veterans in Scotland who took part in the Census and recorded their status as a veteran for doing their bit to improve support, services and outlooks for our community.

You can learn more about the results published today at Scotland’s Census.