VETERANS SERVICE & UF PARTNER UPDATES

Success for VALOUR centre

Congratulations to SSAFA on their successful bid to provide the VALOUR centre for Scotland. This is a meaningful recognition of the work and commitment shown to the veteran community. Read the article here: First government-funded veteran centres launch - GOV.UK.

Veterans' Mental Health and Wellbeing Pathway latest

The pathway is designed to ensure all veterans can access the right mental health support at the right time, through a consistent, joined-up system of care across Scotland. Following work by the Scottish Government, a framework was officially published on the 19th of March and is now moving into the implementation phase for becoming a national pathway for veterans across Scotland.
Read the full update here: Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Pathway – National Framework - gov.scot

Funding for See Me

The Scottish Government will be funding the See Me programme through 2026/2027, working to end mental health stigma and discrimination in Scotland. From April, the programme will be transitioning from Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) to their new managing partner Penumbra.

Free legal advice for victims of sexual offences

A new MOD pilot will give victims of sexual offences involving service personnel access to free, independent legal advice, marking a shift in support across the Armed Forces community. The Independent Legal Advocacy scheme, launching in spring 2026, will offer specialist solicitors outside the chain of command to help individuals understand their rights and navigate the service justice system. Open to serving personnel and civilians, recognising longstanding concerns about barriers to reporting and victim-centred support. Read more here: MOD to offer free legal advice to victims of sexual offences in the UK and overseas

Erskine’s new strategy 2025-2031

Erskine has unveiled a six-year strategy aimed at reaching more veterans earlier in life by shifting its focus towards community-based support and expanding services across Scotland. Read the whole article here: Erskine sets out bold six-year strategy to expand community reach - TFN

TRAINING & EVENTS

Cyrenians' Spring programme

A new Rise and Restore Spring programme running from April to June will offer women from the Armed Forces community – veterans, serving, partners, family members - a mix of relaxation, creative and gardening workshops. Saturday sessions will also include the option of childcare support, helping to make the programme more accessible.

Unforgotten Forces Awareness Training

Free online training on veteran-related topics in Scotland. This training is especially valuable for those building their knowledge around the Armed Forces and supporting veterans. Sessions cover challenges faced by ex-military personnel, how to identify older veterans, and the additional support and opportunities available to them. Sign up using the following link: Unforgotten Forces Online Awareness Training 2026 – Fill in form or by emailing: laila.henke@agescotland.org.uk

Dates:

• Wednesday, 27th May
• Thursday, 18th June
• Wednesday, 22nd July

Scottish Veterans Awards

Returning on the 29th of April 2026 at Prestonfield House in Edinburgh, the awards bring together the Armed Forces community to celebrate outstanding achievements. Meet the shortlisted finalists here: Meet our Shortlisted Finalists for the Scottish Veterans Awards 2026! - The Veterans Awards.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust

More than £460,000 has been awarded to 11 new projects helping service families settle more quickly after relocation, with support ranging from local guidance to community connections and tools for children. The funding aims to reduce isolation and ensure families feel welcomed when they move.

Read more here: 11 new projects to help service families feel at home faster - Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust

RESEARCH AND ENGAGEMENT

Forces Children Scotland

A new report highlights how children from military families can feel “camouflaged” within the education system, with their unique needs often going unrecognised. It calls for more flexible, joined-up support for young people as they relocate. Read the full report here: Camouflaged in the education system: Why Forces children need systems that move with them - Forces Children Scotland