Scottish Veterans Commissioner Recommendations

The purpose of this review was to look at the advice, guidance and support provided for veterans on finance (as they return to civilian life and in the longer term), consider the role and contribution of veterans who work within the financial sector, and capture observations and findings. Each section sets out suggestions of how things could be improved based on the evidence and testimony gathered.

These suggestions will support the following outcome focussed recommendations I am making to the Scottish Government:

• Building on previous recommendations, guidance to local authorities in Scotland should clearly state that all armed forces compensation, including awards under the War Pension Scheme, must be fully disregarded when calculating income for means-tested benefits.
• Veterans accessing benefits through Social Security Scotland are identified and supported by staff who are trained to be ‘veteran aware’. Clearly designated points of contact in Social Security Scotland for veterans - and for those supporting them - should be easily identifiable and accessible.
• Staff delivering financial or debt advice services that receive statutory funding are trained to be ‘veteran aware’, ensuring they understand the unique needs of the veteran community and are equipped to provide appropriate support.
• Veterans are explicitly recognised as a population at heightened risk in the development of appropriate public health policy, services, and support addressing gambling harms.

My recommendations are made in line with my remit to ‘provide leadership and challenge and drive momentum’ towards realising the Scottish Government’s ambition that veterans leave the armed forces with sufficient financial education, awareness and skills to be financially self-supporting and resilient.

These are long term outcomes, and I recognise that achieving them will require collaboration with a range of delivery partners across public, private and third sectors. By working collectively, we can continue to make life better for veterans and their families living in Scotland.