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May Round-Up

Posted on June 9 2023 at 12:48

Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla

It was a great honour to be invited to join several thousand veterans and NHS workers at a special viewing spot to take in key moments from the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla. From outside Buckingham Palace, we enjoyed the processions, the appearance of the Royal Family on the balcony, and the Armed Forces fly past. The exciting atmosphere reflected the momentous occasion, and I felt hugely proud watching the great spectacle of the Armed Forces procession. The coronation of a new Commander-in-Chief is a significant occasion for the Armed Forces and veterans communities, and I was delighted to be given the opportunity to celebrate in such joyful and memorable surroundings.

Combat Stress

A group at Combat Stress’ new Edinburgh Hub

I had a very insightful visit to Combat Stress’ new Edinburgh Hub, where veterans in Scotland can access a range of specialist mental health services as residents or as outpatients. My thanks go to the Combat Stress team for the vital work they do, and for the veterans who were so open about their mental health and how Combat Stress has supported them to get well and stay well.

Veterans Sport Stirling

A group of people at Veterans Sport Stirling’s end of year engagement evening.

I was invited to attend Veterans Sport Stirling’s end of year engagement evening, where I had a lovely time chatting with the group members about their experiences and hearing more about the programmes on offer. The initiative brings together the local veterans community through sport and physical activity, providing health and wellbeing benefits plus an opportunity to socialise.

Lanarkshire Firm Base

Lanarkshire Firm Base was created in partnership with North and South Lanarkshire Council to lead on delivery of the key commitments contained in both councils’ Armed Forces Community Covenants. I attended their latest meeting for an update and found it very encouraging to hear about Local Authority Veterans Champions, NHS Veterans Champions, a representative from children’s services and a range of third sector organisations all working together to support veterans. I appreciated the chance to speak with the Chief Executive for South Lanarkshire Council, Cleland Sneddon, to learn more about the Councils’ joint approach to meeting the Covenant duties.

There was also an excellent brief from Gary Jamieson of RBLI about its Lifeworks service - a free employment support programme which helps veterans and family members of those currently serving to find meaningful employment. I look forward to engaging with Lifeworks later this year.

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On the anniversary of Victory over Japan Day, marking the end of the Second World War, tribute is paid to the Allied forces whose courage, service and sacrifice helped shape the course of history. Their legacy lives on in the freedoms enjoyed today. It is also a day to remember the enduring impact of war on those who returned with life-changing injuries, visible and unseen; and the families, friends and communities whose lives were forever altered by conflict.

1 day ago

It was a pleasure to meet Angus Council’s Veterans Champion, Cllr Ronnie Proctor, at Balhousie Castle, home of The Black Watch Association and Museum. The excellent museum brings to life the regiment’s proud history and heritage, recognising its distinguished contribution to our nation’s defence and the service and sacrifice of generations of soldiers and their families. I was also delighted to meet members of the Black Watch Association Welfare Committee over lunch. It was invaluable to hear directly about the experiences, concerns, and priorities of veterans within the Black Watch community. Our discussion highlighted the important role that regimental associations continue to play in supporting veterans, maintaining lifelong connections, and strengthening links with families and local communities. @blackwatchmuseum

2 days ago

Today I joined Service Leavers, veterans, family members and support providers at the Defence Garden Scheme's Cultivate and Connect course at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. It was inspiring to see and hear at first hand how this nature based programme is supporting Service Leavers and veterans, making a positive difference to their recovery, wellbeing and connection with others. @defencegardens @rbgedinburgh

4 days ago

I enjoyed catching up with Martin Nadin, CEO of Scottish Veterans Residences and Chair of the Veterans Scotland Housing Group. It was valuable to hear an update on veterans' homelessness from an expert provider and to discuss both the challenges we continue to face and the action needed to address them. No one who has served their country should find themselves homeless, and there is still much work to do to make that a reality.

1 week ago