VETERANS SERVICE & UF PARTNER UPDATES

Fighting with Pride Guide to the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme
This guide offers a slow and steady approach to completing the application for the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme, helping individuals progress at their own pace while ensuring it is submitted in time for the December 2026 deadline.

Access the guide here:FRS Application Guidance – Fighting With Pride PDF.

For advice, contactFighting With Pride: The Armed Forces LGBTQ+ Charityor call the Age Scotland helpline at 0800 12 44 222.

NOVA Scotland: Specialist Support for Veterans in the Justice System
NOVA Scotland, delivered by the Forces Employment Charity, provides tailored support for veterans and families of veterans who are involved in the justice system. In partnership with Police Scotland Custody Centres, veterans in custody can now be referred to trauma-informed support, including tailored assessments and support plans for mental health, debt, and substance misuse assistance, with the aim of improving outcomes and reducing reoffending.

Read the full press release here:Scottish veterans to benefit from specialist support in the criminal justice system | Forces Employment Charity

Partner referral form:https://www.forcesemployment.org.uk/programmes/op-nova/referral-form/
Self-referral form/ contact:https://www.forcesemployment.org.uk/programmes/op-nova/contact/

Veterans Emotional Support Helpline
The Samaritans’ dedicated helpline number for veterans will be discontinued from late March 2026. Veterans can instead call the Samaritans’ free national helpline on 116 123.

PTSD Resolution: UK-Wide Therapist Support
The PTSD Resolution offers a nationwide network of accredited therapists supporting veterans, reservists and families affected by PTSD and trauma. Find local support here: https://ptsdresolution.org/who-we-are/therapists-network

Support from the Royal British Legion Admiral Nurse Service

For specialist support and advice to carers and families of veterans living with dementia, referrals can be made to The Royal British Legion Admiral Nurse Service. You can contact the service administrator team at ANSupport@britishlegion.org.uk, by calling 0808 802 8080 or contacting Cherie Aird, Admiral Nurse Practitioner, atCAird@britishlegion.org.uk.

TRAINING & EVENTS

Forces Employment Charity

The Women into Employment (WIE) series runs until March, offering webinars and an in-person networking events to support female veterans and military spouses into their next career step. Attendees can join individual sessions or the full series. Click the link to find the schedule and event Overview.

Kiltmaking for Veterans
Làmhan, in partnership with veteran and professional kiltmaker Hannah MacFarlane of Thistle and Cloth, is offering a practical, skills-based Kiltmaking course for Scottish veterans. Find out more here Kiltmaking for Veterans – Làmhan and express interest here Lamhan - Kiltmaking for Veterans Expression of Interest.

A Safe Space for Veterans Living with Tinnitus
The Armed Forces Tinnitus Support Group meets online every third Thursday of the month. Join fellow veterans to share experiences, swap tips, ask questions, and connect with others. Find out more and register here: Armed Forces Tinnitus Support Group.

SSAFA Sierra Nevada Trek: 8–12 September 2026

SSAFA is organising a five-day adventure in southern Spain, trekking to the summit of Mount Mulhacén (3,482m), the highest peak in mainland Spain. Walk through lush valleys, dramatic gorges, and traditional Moorish villages before reaching the summit. More information and sign up here: Sierra Nevada Trek 2026 | SSAFA.

Training the Trainers Hub: Digital Safety Resources

The hub provides practical resources to build your knowledge and confidence in supporting others to stay safe online. Designed for professionals working with vulnerable groups, it also includes shareable materials to support ongoing digital skills development. Access the hub here: Training The Trainers - Lead Scotland

Veterans Community Offer Space for Female Veterans
A supportive and welcoming space for female veterans, partners, and family members to connect and spend time together. The group meets every Monday, 10am–2pm at 59 Shieldmuir Street, Wishaw, ML2 7TJ. No booking required - drop-in support available. More information here: VC Lanarkshire

RESEARCH AND ENGAGEMENT

Poppyscotland Calls for Improved Support for Veterans in Manifesto
Poppyscotland has launched an election manifesto ahead of the Holyrood elections in May, urging political parties to improve support for serving and ex-serving personnel and their families - highlighting priority areas such as expanding the Armed Forces Covenant and better access to education, health, housing, and childcare. Read and support here: Poppyscotland Manifesto 2026.

New Report on Ex‑Servicewomen’s Physical Health and Healthcare Experiences

A recent UK study revealed that female veterans face distinct physical health challenges compared with civilian women - and report unique experiences when accessing healthcare after service. The report offers recommendations for policymakers, charities, and health providers to better recognise and respond to the specific needs of ex‑servicewomen. Read here: https://www.centreformilitarywomensresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/The-Physical-Health-and-Healthcare-Experiences-of-UK-Ex-servicewomen-Report-FINAL-v3b.pdf.

Support Older People Through Friendship Calls
Age Scotlandis looking for volunteers to host their telephone Circles service, helping socially isolated older people connect through regular, facilitated telephone group calls.

Circles include six participants, meeting at the same day and time each week to chat about a range of topics and interests. The Circle's host will join the calls (which last up to one hour), guide discussions, and develop resources to make each session engaging and meaningful for participants. Find out more and apply here: Circles Volunteer – Age Scotland