VETERANS SERVICE & UF PARTNER UPDATES

Funding to Reduce Gambling Harms

£7.9 million Gambling Levy funding will support prevention and treatment services. The funding includes over £1m for the RCA Trust to extend evidence-based services including counselling, group work and rehabilitation across Scotland for veterans. Find out more here: https://www.gov.scot/news/reducing-gambling-harms/

From April 1, GambleAware is no longer operating due to changes in funding. Following transition, the RCA Trust will become the primary provider of treatment, training, and support for gambling-related harms across Scotland. For questions and more information, please get in touch with Jamie Higgins at jhiggins@rcatrust.org.uk

Who Dares Cares

Now approved by Qualifications Scotland as a centre in its own right, with immediate ability to deliver the Personal Achievement Awards. For more information, contact Alan Deans at alandeans63@btinternet.com.

Scottish Men’s Sheds Association

Read the findings of joint research by Dr Julie Cowie and Dani Hutcheon on “How to attract younger men into men’s sheds” on the SMSA website FACTSHEET: How to attract younger men into Men’s Sheds - Scottish Men's Sheds Association.

Government Directory

Click the following link to find the updated directory for support for veterans and their families - GOV.UK

Meal Makers

Meal Makers pairs volunteers who love cooking with an older person (our ‘diners’) in their neighbourhood to share some delicious home cooked food and a chat on a regular basis. It’s a great way to remain connected to the community and prevent isolation and loneliness. The service costs £5/ month to support with running costs.

Find out more https://thefoodtrain.co.uk/how-we-help/meal-makers/

Age Scotland election news

Age Scotland has called for the next Holyrood government to reinstate a Minister for Older People, a post that was downgraded in 2023. The charity is highlighting a growing unhappiness among older voters about the apparent lack of interest or care from politicians about issues affecting older people. More than three quarters – 76% - said they wanted to see a Minister for Older People in the next government.

You can read the charity's news release here.

And sign up to support the campaign here.

TRAINING & EVENTS

The Nook's monthly events

Check out what's happening at The Nook. Conversation cafes, information drop-ins and workshops held every month.

Women’s Support Project

This free event for front line workers and service/team leads will highlight the range of resources and opportunities available to improve practice in relation to commercial sexual exploitation. Resources will cover safety, housing, mental health, sexual health and financial needs, as well as support available when women chose to exit. Register here: Upcoming Training & Events by CSE Aware.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

Forte Charitable Foundation

The Foundation is giving out grants to small and medium sized local organisations in the UK. Find out more here Welcome to Forte (formerly Trusthouse) Charitable Foundation | Forte Charitable Foundation.

RESEARCH AND ENGAGEMENT

Military Veteran Student Experiences