News

January Round-up

UK Minister for Veterans and People

I was pleased to meet UK Minister for Veterans and People Al Carns DSO OBE MC MP during his visit to Scotland. We enjoyed a constructive conversation about the valuable contribution of the UK’s veteran community as well as challenges that veterans can experience, exchanging insights on good practice for support and services.

A selection of organisations and charities who support the veteran community in Scotland took part in a stakeholder session at Edinburgh Napier University, where they delivered useful presentations and took part in discussions about their work.

We then visited Lothians Veterans Centre, where we had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with veterans, families, volunteers and staff.

Veterans’ experiences of the benefits system 

The SVC Office was represented at the launch of an important report on the experience of veterans accessing the benefits system. ‘Navigating the minefield: Veterans’ experiences of the benefits system over time’ brings together the final findings of seven years of research from the University of Salford, funded by Forces in Mind Trust. The report praised notable progress in the DWP, such as the introduction of designated Armed Forces Champions to help with managing benefit claims, undergoing benefits assessments and accessing employment opportunities. These developments were viewed positively by veterans and cited as improving their experience. The report recommended several measures for further improvement, such as clear guidance that is consistent and sustained across the DWP, MOD and Armed Forces charities and that the DWP continues its commitment to trauma-informed approaches.

Reaffirming the Service of LGBT+ veterans

It was a profound honour to present Kim Stokes with her Royal Navy beret, Etherton ribbon and letter from the First Sea Lord at a restitution ceremony hosted by the Lord Provost of Edinburgh. Brigadier Andrew Muddiman RM spoke on behalf of the MOD and Royal Navy to recognise that Kim’s service to the nation was cut short due to the LGBT ban, and that she is a valued member of the veteran community. Kim was supported by friends and family at the moving and uplifting event which was an exemplar of cooperation between the Armed Forces and a Local Authority Champion in supporting the veteran community.

Engaging veterans in the archaeology sector

One of my team members attended a fascinating event hosted by Archaeology Scotland at Newbattle Abbey, Dalkeith, which explored innovative ways to engage veterans, including involvement in archaeological digs at battlegrounds and other sites of historical interest. The event provided valuable insights and was well received by attendees from across the veteran community.