News

October Round-up

Veterans and the Law

In October, I launched my Veterans and the Law report, which examines whether the right support is in place for the small minority of veterans in custody or who come into contact with the criminal justice system, as well as considering the role and contribution of veterans who work or volunteer within the system.  Among my recommendations were the need for improved identification of veterans within the justice system, and more strategic use of data to enhance support, shape policy, and develop future services. The report also recognised the many veterans who contribute to enforcing and upholding the law and help to support offenders.

Get more information about the report here.

Veteran support in the NHS

I attended the launch of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Veteran Support Service, which will be delivered in collaboration with the Defence Medical Welfare Service and Glasgow’s Helping Heroes to offer integrated welfare support for veterans and families.

Visit to HMNB Clyde

On a very informative visit to HMNB Clyde, I met members of the Personnel Support Group and the Learning and Development teams. I heard how both these groups support Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel who are transitioning from the Services. I was impressed by some of the innovative ways that have been developed to enhance transition and address challenges that some transitioning Service personnel and their families encounter.

Veteran support in the community

I received a warm welcome from Garelochhead Station Trust, a community organisation supporting its veteran community in a host of ways. The Trust aims to ensure that veterans and their families have easy access to the services that they are entitled to in a warm and informal setting and provides information and training to those who needs it. It has developed partnerships with veteran charities, and organises frequent social events and outings.

World Homelessness Day

I joined Cyrenians to mark World Homelessness Day at a thought-provoking presentation by Professor Suzanne Fitzpatrick, who highlighted the societal, personal and economic advantages of adopting a prevention approach to homelessness.

Remembrance

I was privileged to attend the opening ceremonies for the Edinburgh and Glasgow Gardens of Remembrance, an opportunity to honour those who have served and reflect on sacrifices made. The Gardens, which are managed by Poppyscotland and Legion Scotland, give people a place to pay tribute to the fallen throughout the Remembrance period. There is also a Graden of Remembrance in Inverness, or you can visit Poppyscotland’s virtual Field of Remembrance if you would like to leave a tribute

The opening of the Gardens coincides with the launch of the Scottish Poppy Appeal, and I was delighted to meet Gregor Townsend, Head Coach at Scottish Rugby, as he launched this year’s Appeal. We spoke about Remembrance and the life-changing impact of the work the Appeal supports. Find out how you can get involved or show your support for the Appeal here.

10 years of Bellrock Close

I was delighted to join Scottish Veterans Residences to celebrate 10 years of Bellrock Close, which provides supported housing for veterans in Glasgow. I had a great day celebrating the incredible staff, residents and partner organisations that make Bellrock Close such a supportive, special place.

You can read more about Bellrock Close and the celebrations here.

Commando Connect

The Royal Marines Charity invited me along to one of its Commando Connect events at RM Condor, Arbroath, to learn more about the initiative. Combining comradeship and support for the whole Royal Marines family in a relaxed and welcoming setting, it was clear how much the community values these meet-ups.