News

November and December Round-up

Armistice events

It was a moving start to November as always, with a number of Remembrance events taking place.

I was invited to lay a wreath at an Armistice service at the Scottish Police College, which was attended by many of Police Scotland’s Veterans Champions. I had the chance to update them on my latest report on Veterans and the Law and thank them for the work they do.

I was also hugely honoured to lay a wreath at the Stone of Remembrance in Edinburgh on Remembrance Sunday.

Showcasing Scotland’s veteran initiatives

I was delighted to welcome Veterans Commissioner for Wales, James Philips, to Glasgow to meet with services including Scottish Veterans Residences, Glasgow’s Helping Heroes, the Defence Medical Welfare Service, and Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company.  A great opportunity to share good practice from services here in Scotland and hear about initiatives for veterans in Wales.

Supporting the Royal Navy and Royal Marines community

I had an enjoyable day hosted by the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) in Helensburgh and at HMNB Clyde, hearing about the support on offer for the local service and veteran community. I met with Shelley Gilmour, Manager at Drumfork Community Centre, who explained more about some of the events and activities on offer for forces families and veterans in the area, followed by a fascinating tour of the Astute class attack submarine HMS Ambush where I had the opportunity to meet some of her impressive ship’s company.

In the evening, I attended the RNRMC Scotland Recognition Evening onboard the Tall Ship in Glasgow, an inaugural event to celebrate the remarkable individuals and groups in Scotland and the north whose efforts have significantly contributed to the charity’s mission of supporting the Royal Navy and Royal Marines community – for life. Congratulations to all who were recognised.

Veterans Housing Scotland update

I attended the Veterans Housing Scotland Annual Gathering at Edinburgh City Chambers, where we heard how the charity’s focus on people and partnership has enabled it to expand services this year.

International Volunteer Day

To mark International Volunteer Day, I shared the story of Fares4Free volunteer driver Ian Shiells to celebrate the incredible impact of volunteering on the veteran community and highlight the way that volunteering can transform the lives of both beneficiaries and volunteers.

You can read Ian’s story here.

Steel-cutting for HMS SHEFFIELD

Having served in the previous HMS SHEFFIELD, it was a privilege to witness the first cutting of steel for the next Royal Navy ship of this name. The T26 class frigate is being built by BAE Systems at Govan, a notable and supportive employer of veterans.

I also met members of the HMS SHEFFIELD Association whose ship was so sadly lost in the Falklands conflict in 1982, and Cdr Andrew Loring RN, whose family presented a Sheffield steel valve wheel which his father had rescued from the first HMS SHEFFIELD, commissioned in 1937.

Scottish Parliamentary Debate

It was a pleasure to attend the parliamentary debate on supporting veterans and the Armed Forces community in Scotland. The discussion underscored the immense contributions of our veteran community, highlighted the support available to them, and emphasised the progress we must continue to pursue.

LGBT+ Financial Recognition Scheme

The beginning of December marked a significant step forward for LGBT+ veterans affected by the Armed Forces sexuality ban, with the UK Government’s announcement of a £75m Financial Recognition Scheme.

Applications opened on 13 December 2024, and Fighting with Pride is urging those applying to take time with their applications and seek support if needed.

Read more about the announcement and getting support with your application here.

Robin Chapel

It was an enormous privilege to read at the Robin Chapel’s International Service of Nine Lessons and Carols. The chapel has the wonderfully inspiring motto: Service – Sacrifice – Remembrance - Reconciliation. Together, these principles serve as a timeless guide and a tribute to the enduring values upheld by the chapel.

As the year draws to a close, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks those who have welcomed me, given their time, shared their experiences, and supported my work in the past year. It would not be possible to carry out my work without this support, and I am hugely grateful.

As the festive season brings joy and togetherness for many, it’s important to remember that this time of year can feel lonely for some. If you’re experiencing isolation, please know that support is always available—don’t hesitate to reach out.

Let’s also take a moment to connect with friends, neighbours, or anyone who might need a little extra kindness this Christmas. Even the smallest gesture of care can make a world of difference

Wishing you all very Merry Christmas and all the best for a happy and healthy 2025.