Veterans' Services Update

Unforgotten Forces magazine autumn issue out now
This issue we focus on mental health, with personal stories and interviews with the Combat Stress team. Housing is our other big feature. Read what experts say about getting the best housing options as you age, and on how to heat your home for less.
We also take a tour of service and regimental associations and cover gas safety, vaccines, LGBT+ veterans’ issues and more. Read online and request postal copies

New scheme to improve healthcare for veterans
The Scottish Government has launched a scheme to improve GPs' understanding of veterans’ needs and the range of healthcare support that can be provided. Visiting Kirriemuir Medical Practice, which is one of the first to sign up to the scheme, Veterans Minister Graeme Dey said: “The pilot has already had a significant impact in helping veterans and armed forces families, and that will only increase as more GPs sign up." Find out more

A veteran shedder's story
Men's Sheds can be found across Scotland and offer older ex-service men opportunities to enjoy purposeful activity and camaraderie. RAF veteran and retired boat builder Alfie Wood from Banff, Macduff and District Men’s Shed recently shared what he gets out of his local Men’s Shed with the Scottish Men's Shed Association team. Read Alfie's story Find local Men's Sheds

Free Remembrance Sunday rail travel for veterans
The UK Office for Veterans Affairs has announced that veterans can travel to and from services of remembrance by train for free anywhere in Britain on Remembrance Sunday, 12 November. Those attending the Remembrance Sunday ceremony at the Cenotaph can travel to any London terminal for free on Saturday 11 November or on the day. Find out more

Unforgotten Forces Gathering booking fast
Tuesday 21st November 2023, Glasgow
A few places are remaining for the Unforgotten Forces Gathering, a one-day conference for professionals and volunteers involved in supporting the older veteran community in Scotland. Join us for a day of information sharing and networking with a view to amplifying the impact we can make for older veterans in Scotland. Book here

Lighting up red for Remembrance
With the annual Poppy Appeal in full swing, Poppyscotland has created an online map showing which public buildings are lighting up red in support. See the map

Veterans and service providers views sought
The Office for Veterans Affairs has launched a public consultation to build its understanding of veterans, to assess the effectiveness of current policies and to shape future strategies. Veterans' communities and service providers are invited to have their say. Find out more and respond

Communities Round-Up

Pension Age Disability Payment plans challenged
A coalition of charities, including Age Scotland, Sight Scotland Veterans and Citizens Advice Scotland, is calling for the Scottish Government to improve plans for the new Pension Age Disability Payment by providing a mobility component to help recipients with their mobility needs. Find out more

Free calendar for older people
Age Scotland has published a 2024 issue of its popular calendar for people in Scotland aged 50 plus. This includes monthly tips for a healthy and happy later life. If you receive Unforgotten Forces magazine by post you'll find the calendar included. If not, you can order the calendar directly from the link below. Request your copy

Events and Training

Funding

Armed Forces Covenant Fund grants
Programmes currently open include:
Reaching and Supporting Armed Forces Communities - up to £100k over 3 years for specific and targeted projects, closing 13 November.
Force for Change - up to £15k for community projects that reduce isolation and promote integration closing 13 December
Find out more and apply

The Veterans’ Foundation
Grants of up to £30,000 to help veterans, qualified seafarers and dependants, who are in need. Details and application
Next deadline 30th January 2024

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust

The Veteran’s Career Development Fund will enable Veterans and their families to enter stable long-term employment, by delivering qualifications and training. Grants up to £70k over 2 years are available to help Veterans and their families achieve recognised qualifications, which help them access employment that matches their skills and interests. Find out more

November sees the return of the Armed Forces Families Fund: Supporting Partners programme which has a strong employment and skills focus this year. Grants of £30k-£80k are available for projects that improve support for Service partners and spouses to promote, enhance and utilise the skills and experiences they bring to the workplace Find out more

Join us for our ‘Lunch & Learn’ Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund webinar on 20th November @ 1pm to 2pm. This is a great opportunity to find out more about the Development Grant and Refurbishment Grant programmes and how organisations supporting Veterans can make use of this fantastic funding.

Veterans' Services Update

BOOK NOW for Autumn Gathering 2023
Tuesday 21st November 2023, Glasgow
Unforgotten Forces Gathering conferences are for professionals and volunteers involved in supporting the older veteran community in Scotland.  Join us for a day of information sharing and networking with a view to amplifying the impact we can make for older veterans in Scotland.

Plenary contributors include The Northern Hub for Veterans and Military Families’ Research and Dr Katey Warran, who will provide insights from research on the role of the arts in health and wellbeing.

There will also be breakout sessions from Age Scotland and ASAP, on benefits and pipeline changes in these, from SACRO Veterans Mentoring Service, on supporting veterans with chaotic lifestyles, and from NHS Scotland on supporting older veterans to stop smoking, a major health issue for the older veterans community.    Book here

Nuclear test veterans recognised
Veterans of the British Nuclear Test Programme are receiving newly designed commemorative medals in the approach to Remembrance Day 2023.  Amongst them is Erskine resident Jackson Hasson, who served during nuclear testing on Christmas Island in the 1950s and suffers several long-term health and mobility issues attributable to radiation exposure.  Mr Hasson's medal was presented to him on behalf of His Majesty King Charles III, by the Lord Lieutenant of Renfrewshire Colonel Peter McCarthy.  More about the medals  Read Mr Hasson's story

War widow(er) recognition payments - open for claims
The UK Government has opened the fund for war widow(er)s who forfeited their pensions prior to 2015, and who may be eligible for payments up to £87,500.  Find out more

Scottish Government support for the veterans community
The Scottish Government has published an annual update on its achievements and work undertaken to improve support and access to services for Armed Forces, Veterans and their families.  Read the report

New website share stories of the fallen of world wars
Commonwealth War Graves has launched an online resource dedicated to the stories of those who fell during the world wars.  Visit the 'For Evermore' website

Normandy landing 80th anniversary commemorations
The MOD will support major events to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day in June 2024. Veterans of the Normandy campaign will be at the heart of official events on the 80th anniversary of D-Day: 6 June 2024.  They are invited to register with the Royal British Legion to express their interest in attending the commemorations. Register interest here.

Popular Ayrshire veterans’ breakfast club wins award
The Saltcoats Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club has won Age Scotland’s Patrick Brooks Award for Best Partnership Working.  Read the story

RAF retirement accommodation opened to all veterans
The Royal Air Forces Association's retirement accommodation at Rothbury House in Rothbury, Northumberland, which was developed for RAF veterans and their spouses, now has suites available for the whole military veteran community over the age of 60.  To find out more contact retirementhousing@rafa.org.uk or call 0800 018 2361.  More about Rothbury House

Communities Round-Up

Survey captures views and experiences of people in Scotland aged 50 plus
Age Scotland has published the results of its 2023 'Big Survey' which captures the views and experiences of more than 4000 older people.  Key findings include concerns about the cost of social care, the impact of the cost of living crisis and many older people feeling undervalued by society.  Read the survey report

Storytelling Resource launched to help people living with dementia
A pioneering initiative using storytelling to encourage people to open up about their own experiences of living with dementia has been launched by Age Scotland’s dementia policy forum, About Dementia.  Find out more

Events and Training

Funding

Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund
The fund aims to develop a culture of mental wellbeing and prevention within communities across Scotland.  It is delivered through a locally focused and co-ordinated approach via local Third Sector Interface organisations.  Find out more

BFBS Big Salute Grants
Grants for projects to benefit the Armed Forces Community, including veterans. Awards of up to £10,000 for charities with an annual turnover of under £1 million, excluding staff salaries and training.  Deadline 31st October 2023  Details and application

Armed Forces Covenant Fund grants
Programmes currently open include:
Reaching and Supporting Armed Forces Communities - up to £100k over 3 years for specific and targeted projects, closing 13 November.
Force for Change - up to £15k for community projects that reduce isolation and promote integration closing 13 December
Find out more and apply

The Veterans’ Foundation
Grants of up to £30,000 to help veterans, qualified seafarers and dependants, who are in need.   Details and application  Next deadline 30th January 2024

Veterans' Services Update

Unforgotten Forces Autumn Gathering 2023
Tuesday 21st November 2023, Glasgow
Unforgotten Forces Gathering conferences are for professionals and volunteers involved in supporting the older veteran community in Scotland.
The day will feature workshops and plenary sessions focused on improving the health and wellbeing of ex-Armed Forces personnel aged 60 and older.  Programme details and booking information will be circulated in next month’s bulletin.  

Royal Assent for NI Troubles Act
The NI Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act has received Royal Assent. The act aims to stop new Troubles-era cases and inquests and offers a conditional amnesty to those accused of killings. 
Read the UK Government news release  Read BBC news coverage

A quick poll from the Scottish Veterans Commissioner
Susie Hamilton, the Scottish Veterans Commissioner, is inviting all members of the veterans community in Scotland, including spouses, partners, children of veterans and the bereaved, so take a minute to take part in an online poll.  Take the poll

Support from RAF Benevolent Fund
The RAF Benevolent Fund Listening and Counselling service provides free and confidential emotional support for RAF veterans, serving personnel and dependent family members.  Find out more and get support

War Widows Recognition Payment guidance
COBSEO has updated its guidance regarding the lump-sum recognition payment scheme for eligible spouses who forfeited their pensions prior to 2015.
Read the guidance

Forces compensation schemes complaints
The UK Government has updated its complaints procedure for claimants to the War Pension and Armed Forces Compensation schemes.  Find out more

Remembrance march opened to all veterans
This year, for the first time, British Armed Forces veterans who are not affiliated to a military association can sign up to attend the March Past the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday.  Register for the march

DMWS Welfare Officer recruitment
DMWS is recruiting a Welfare Officer for the Glasgow area to support veterans through periods of NHS treatment.  Find out more

Poppyscotland change of contact information
The contact email for individuals seeking Poppyscotland support, directly and through partner referrals, is now info@britishlegion.org.uk.   Their telephone contact centre is open seven dys a week 8am-8pm and available by calling 0131 550 1557 or 0808 802 8080.

Communities Round-Up

Call for COVID experiences
The Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry has launched its listening project, Let's Be Heard, inviting the public to share their experiences of the pandemic and any lessons they believe should be learned.  Find out more

Reducing the risk of falls
Age Scotland has published an article highlighting resources available to reduce the risk of falls in later life, for older people and professionals and volunteers who support them.  Read the article

Dementia get-togethers
About Dementia, the lived experience forum for people affected by dementia hosted by Age Scotland, has published a webpage will information about coming meet ups for people living with dementia and their carer’s.  Visit the webpage

Events and Training

Funding

Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund
Launched on Friday 29th September, the fund aims to develop a culture of mental wellbeing and prevention within communities across Scotland.  It will be delivered through a locally focused and co-ordinated approach via local Third Sector Interface organisations.  Find out more

BFBS Big Salute Grants
Grants for projects to benefit the Armed Forces Community, including veterans. Awards of up to £10,000 for charities with an annual turnover of under £1 million, excluding staff salaries and training.  Deadline 31st October 2023
Details and application

Armed Forces Covenant Fund grants
Programmes currently open include:
Research Grants - up to £60k for projects researching challenges facing the Armed Forces community, closing 6 October
Reaching and Supporting Armed Forces Communities - up to £100k over 3 years for specific and targeted projects, closing 13 November.
Force for Change - up to £15k for community projects that reduce isolation and promote integration closing 13 December   Find out more and apply

The Veterans’ Foundation
Grants of up to £30,000 to help veterans, qualified seafarers and dependants, who are in need.   Details and application  Next deadline 23rd October

Veterans' Services Update

A new medal for Nuclear Test Veterans
Veterans of Britain's nuclear test programme are to receive a newly designed medal in time for Remembrance Day.  Read the story

A new Unforgotten Forces directory
A new edition of the Unforgotten Forces directory leaflet, containing information about and contact details for all charity partners has been published.  These can be ordered online here (scroll down to the 'Veterans' section).

A veterans garden in West Lothian
Sight Scotland Veterans has joined forces with Cyrenians to transform the Walled Garden at its Linburn Centre in West Lothian into a therapy hub for veterans, their families, and the local community.  Lorraine Bruce from SSV tells the story.  Read Lorraine's blog article  See the events listings for coming opportunities

Anniversary reflections from Scottish Veterans Commissioner
Susie Hamilton has posted an article reflecting on her first year as Scottish Veterans Commissioner and sharing her plans for the coming year.  Read the article

Unforgotten Forces partner recruitment
Blesma, which supports veterans with limb loss and loss of the use of limbs, is recruiting an Outreach Officer for Scotland.  Closing date 19th September.   Find out more and apply.
DMWS is recruiting a Welfare Officer for the Scottish Borders Area. Closing date 12th September  Find out more and apply

Report from Office for Veterans Affairs
The UK Government's Office for Veterans Affairs has published a six-month progress report on its Strategy for our Veterans.  Read the report.

Veterans Card consultation
The UK Government is consulting on a digital verification process to support the roll out of HM Armed Forces Veterans Cards later this year.  Find out more about digital verification  Take the survey

Communities Round-Up

New initiative aims to amplify the voices of people with sight loss
People with sight loss are set to have more say in accessibility issues across Scotland with the launch of Sight Loss Councils (SLCs) next year. The Councils are an initiative of Sight Scotland, Sight Scotland Veterans and Visibility Scotland.  Read the story

Campaign for an Older People's Commissioner for Scotland
MSP Colin Smyth has launched a members bill which aims to see a dedicated commissioner for older people appointed in Scotland, a campaign backed by charities including Age Scotland.  The consultation deadline has been extended to 23rd October.  Respond to the consultation  Read Age Scotland article

Take Five to Age Well
The nation is invited to make a pledge for better ageing this autumn with Take Five to Age Well, an initiative from the Open University in partnership with Age Scotland.  The focus is on making small changes in daily routine for better health and wellbeing in later life.  Individuals can pledge, and receive support, online.  Age Scotland is supporting community groups to enable older people, particularly those who aren't online, to take part.   Find out more and take part as an individual   Find out more and take part as a group
 

Events and Training

Funding

BFBS Big Salute Grants
Grants for projects to benefit the Armed Forces Community, including veterans. Awards of up to £10,000 for charities with an annual turnover of under £1 million, excluding staff salaries and training.  Deadline 31st October 2023  Details and application

Armed Forces Covenant Fund grants
Programmes currently open include:
Research Grants - up to £60k for projects researching challenges facing the Armed Forces community, closing 6 October
Reaching and Supporting Armed Forces Communities - up to £100k over 3 years for specific and targeted projects, closing 13 November.
Force for Change - up to £15k for community projects that reduce isolation and promote integration closing 13 December
Find out more and apply

The Veterans’ Foundation
Grants of up to £30,000 to help veterans, qualified seafarers and dependants, who are in need.   Details and application  Next deadline 23rd October 2023.

Veterans' Services Update

Official apology to LGBT+ veterans
The Prime Minister and Defence Secretary have apologised to personnel and veterans impacted by the pre-2000 ban on LGBT+ personnel serving in the Armed Forces.  The apology follows publication of an independent review into their experiences.

Read the Government's apology
Read the independent review
Read Fighting with Pride's response

Unforgotten Forces summer magazine
Features in this issue include holidays for veterans, eating well and enjoying physical activity.  Read and order the free magazine

Outdoor therapy for veterans
Charity 'The Venture Trust' is offering outdoor therapy opportunities in North Lanarkshire to veterans who need support with mental health and wellbeing. 
Find out more

Armed Forces Compensation Scheme and Veterans Welfare Reviews published 
The reviews make recommendations to improve the experience of those requiring veterans’ welfare or compensation services.
Read the Compensation Scheme review
Read the Veterans Welfare review
Read HM Government news release

Homelessness hotline goes live
The UK Government has launched a UK-wide helpline to tackle homelessness amongst the veterans' community.   Read the story

Remembrance events 
Legion Scotland has published is calendar of remembrance events for this autumn.  Find out what's happening

Awards from Scottish Veterans Fund
17 projects in Scotland have been collectively awarded £500,000 from the Scottish Government's Scottish Veterans Fund. Read about the awards

Veterans health research priorities
Researchers, and the UK Government, would like veterans' views on which of their physical and mental health and wellbeing needs should be priorities for future research.  Responses from veterans' families and friends, and support workers, are also invited.  Take the survey

Communities Round-Up

Councils trailblaze Age Friendly Communities
South Ayrshire and South Lanarkshire Councils have committed to become 'Age Friendly Communities' as part of a World Health Organisation initiative being supported in Scotland by Unforgotten Forces partner Scottish Older People's Assembly.
More about Age Friendly Communities 
Read the story - South Lanarkshire 
Read the story - South Ayrshire

More than half of over-50s in Scotland experience loneliness
An Age Scotland survey has highlighted the scale of loneliness among the older population.  Read the story

Stay hydrated this summer
Age Scotland and Scottish Water have joined forces to raise awareness of the importance of staying hydrated in later life, with a free advice guide available.  The campaign is also highlighting the Scottish Water Priority Services register which helps the company look after its older customers, and others with specific needs.  Find out more

Events and Training

Funding

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust
The Trust has opened a Transformational Grants programme, with grants of up to £300,000 for five year projects. The deadline for expressions of interest is 14th August. Find out more
The Trust is also looking for a charity to manage a £2.5 million veterans mobility grants pot on its behalf. The application deadline is 14 August. Find out more.

The Veterans’ Foundation
Grants of up to £30,000 to help veterans, qualified seafarers and dependants, who are in need.   Details and application  Next deadline 7th August 2023.

Veterans' Services Update

Lump sum payment for war widows

The UK Government has announced a one-off payment of £87,500 for eligible spouses in recognition of those who forfeited their pensions prior to 2015. Find out more Ministerial letter on Twitter

Impact of military ‘gay ban’ researched

New research from Northumbria University highlights the mental health and financial impact on veterans affected by the ‘gay ban’ that was in place in the military until 2000. Find out more

Combat Stress’ impact in media

An article for Nursing Times highlighting the difference Combat Stress makes to veterans’ mental health. Read the article

See me campaign highlights how to support veterans’ mental health

Mental health charity ‘See me’ has published real-life stories and advice on its website. Visit website

Veterans awareness poster

The UK Office of Veterans Affairs has published an online awareness poster for those involved in supporting veterans. Visit website

Veterans and Men’s Sheds personal story

The Scottish Men’s Shed Association has published on its website the story of a veteran benefiting from involvement in his local Shed. Read the story

National Service remembered

The 60th anniversary of demobilisation of that last National Serviceman was on 16th May. Read the story

Communities Round-Up

New dementia strategy for Scotland

The Scottish Government has published a new national dementia strategy, offering a 10-year vision for change. Read the news release Read Age Scotland blog

Study highlights variation in quality of home adaptations services

A new report “Making Adaptations Work for Older People in Scotland” from Age Scotland and the University of Stirling, funded by the Scottish Government, has found that local authority adaptations services vary widely in quality across the country and in many cases getting help was confusing and unsatisfactory. Read story and report

Events and Training

Funding

The Household Hardship Fund

A £1 million fund offering small grants to charities and community groups across Scotland who can pass the funding on directly to families and individuals on low incomes. Groups can apply for up to £5,000 to provide families and individuals with cash or vouchers to meet pressing needs such as food, fuel, household items or clothing. All funds must be passed on to families and individuals by 30 June 2023. Details and application

The Veterans’ Foundation

Grants of up to £30,000 to help veterans, qualified seafarers and dependants, who are in need. Details and application Next deadline 7th August 2023.

Veterans' Services Update

Save the date

Unforgotten Forces Gathering, Tuesday 27th June, The Steeple, Nethergate, Dundee.   A free one-day conference for professionals and volunteers in groups and services that support older veterans, hosted by the Unforgotten Forces Partnership. Programme details and a booking link will be circulated shortly.  

Wilderness experiences with Operation Cairngorms

Operation Cairngorms offers wilderness based retreats, residential courses and workshops for those still serving in the military and veterans.  From their base in ancient woodland on the edge of the Cairngorms national park they run regular skills sessions such as bushcraft, foraging, and wilderness survival, all “taught at a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunity for those attending to relax and simply have a break from the norm.”  Details, dates and booking

Poppies go green

The Royal British Legion has developed a paper Poppy that has a 40% smaller carbon footprint and will be recyclable in household waste collections. Read the story

Unclaimed Service Pensions

Veterans UK is appealing to men and women who served in HM Armed Forces from 1 April 1975 and left without entitlement to immediate benefits to find out if they have unclaimed pensions.  Between 1st June 2020 – 31st May 2022 over 4,000 Armed Forces pensions went unclaimed.  Chief Executive, Major General Neil Marshall OBE, said: “We can all play our part in encouraging Veterans we know, to come forward if they have not claimed their preserved pensions or preserved lump sums. These can be significant amounts of money. For example, a preserved pension of £1,500 for someone who left in April 1985, would now have a value of £4,500 pa.

“Anyone serving after April 1975, now aged 60 or over, could have an unclaimed pension. AFPS pensions earned before April 2005 are payable at age 60 but will not be paid automatically – they have to be applied for. We urge you to encourage anyone who might be eligible, to visit the Veterans’ Gateway website without delay.”  Veterans UK

Unforgotten Forces partner wins Scottish Veterans Award

Dougie Morgan, LGBT+ Scottish Community Support Worker with Unforgotten Forces partner charity Fighting With Pride, had an amazing evening at April’s Scottish Veterans Awards ceremony. He received the Inspiration of the Year award, was runner up for the Lifetime Achievement Award and won Overall Veterans Champion.  Congratulations Dougie!

Moving north with Legion Scotland

The Legion Scotland Veterans Community Support Service team recently supported 87-year-old former Royal Scots Colour Sgt Danny Sutherland as he relocated from Scottish Veterans Residences Whiteford House in Edinburgh to Inverness, where he will live closer to his daughter.  Veterans Community Support Manager Tam Douglas said: “I have known Danny for almost 50yrs and remember him from my time in the Regiment, in fact, Danny refereed the last inter-company final I played in giving a dodgy penalty decision which ended up costing me a winner’s medal. Danny always tells me it’s time to get over it and get rid of the dummy!”  Veterans Community Support Service webpage

Fares4Free recognised as mental health aware

Veterans transport charity Fares4Free has been awarded the Veterans Mental Health Awareness Standard by COBSEO, the UK's Confederation of Service Charities.  This highlights the quality of mental health support provided through the Fares4Free service.  Read the story

Communities Round-Up

Health and wellbeing in later life resource launched

Age Scotland has launched a resource, The Wellbeing Flower, that community groups and services can use to highlight and build-on the contributions they make to the health and wellbeing of older people they support.  The resource explores topics including physical activity, nutrition and hydration, emotional wellbeing, brain health and social connection, and is informed by research evidence.  Age Scotland is offering free workshops that will equip participants to facilitate use of the Wellbeing Flower with their group or service.  Find out more

Low Emissions Zones and Blue Badge Holder exemptions

This May and June Low Emission Zones will come into force in for all vehicles in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow.  These will restrict the most polluting vehicles from certain city roads to improve air quality.  Blue Badge Holders get exemptions under the scheme.  About Low Emissions Zones
Blue badge holder information

Council Tax Reduction

Age Scotland has published a 2023 edition of its Council Tax Reduction guide explains who is eligible for help paying their Council Tax and how to claim.  An additional benefit of receiving Council Tax Reduction is that it can open the door to additional support with rising energy bills.  Read and order the guide

Events and Training

Funding

The Household Hardship Fund

A £1 million fund offering small grants to charities and community groups across Scotland who can pass the funding on directly to families and individuals on low incomes. Groups can apply for up to £5,000 to provide families and individuals with cash or vouchers to meet pressing needs such as food, fuel, household items or clothing. All funds must be passed on to families and individuals by 30 June 2023. Details and application

The Veterans’ Foundation

Grants of up to £30,000 to help veterans, qualified seafarers and dependants, who are in need.   Details and application  Next deadline 7th August 2023.

Veterans' Services Update

Funding for Unforgotten Forces

We are delighted to share the good news that the Scottish Government has awarded Unforgotten Forces £950,000 funding (in total) for the period April 2023 to March 2026. The Scottish Government had previously funded the partnership from autumn 2020 to the end of March 2023. Read the news release

New Scottish Government Minister for Veterans

Graeme Dey was appointed as Minister for Higher and Further Education; and Minister for Veterans in March 2023. He has previously held ministerial responsibility for veterans. Read Graeme Dey’s biography

Veterans Mobility Fund

The UK Government’s announcement of £3 million for veterans’ mobility in 2023/24 in the spring budget has been welcomed by Armed Forces charities. Read the story

Moral injury explained

Kings College has published an animated video about managing and treating moral injury. It includes information about what you can do to support someone struggling with moral injury. Watch the video

Challenging mental health stigma

SSAFA has published a mental health anti-stigma film featuring two veterans and beneficiaries of the Glasgow's Helping Heroes service - Patrick and Joe. Watch the video

Toolkit for applying Armed Forces Covenant duties

Following the standing up of the new Covenant Duty on 22 November 2022, the MOD has published an Armed Forces Covenant Duty toolkit, which provides further information on the legal aspects of the Duty, and guidance on the training and engagement resources that can be drawn upon to support delivery. While primarily for public bodies, the toolkit may also be of interest to third sector organisations that support the veterans’ community. Read the toolkit

Support for veterans’ book clubs from Reading Forces

Reading Forces is offering support to groups interested in setting up a book club for their members (for example, a group of adult veterans). The support includes providing FREE books for groups for 3 months. Find out more

Nuclear Test Veterans Medals

Nuclear test veterans and eligible civilians can now apply for a medal to recognise their service. The Government is now calling on veterans and civilian staff from across the Commonwealth to claim commemorative Nuclear Test Medals. Find out more

Communities Round-Up

Priority Services Register

The Priority Services Register (PSR) is a free UK wide service which provides extra advice and support, including when there’s an interruption to your electricity or gas supply. A new website has been launched with the support of energy network operators across Great Britain to offer a quicker and more straight forward process for energy customers to sign up to the Priority Services Register (PSR). Visit the website

Two in three with dementia miss out on support

Latest figures from Public Health Scotland have revealed that 2 in 3 of people diagnosed with dementia missed out on the support they needed and were entitled to. Read the story

Charity invites over 50s to have their say

Age Scotland’s 2023 Big Survey is now open, offering people in Scotland aged 50 plus an opportunity to have th5eir say on a range of topics including their health and wellbeing, housing, transport, communities, ageism, and representation of older people. Take the survey

Events and Training

Funding

The Household Hardship Fund

A £1 million fund offering small grants to charities and community groups across Scotland who can pass the funding on directly to families and individuals on low incomes. Groups can apply for up to £5,000 to provide families and individuals with cash or vouchers to meet pressing needs such as food, fuel, household items or clothing. All funds must be passed on to families and individuals by 30 June 2023. Details and application

Veterans' Services Update

Comradeship Circles to continue

Age Scotland Comradeship Circles service offers members of the veterans’ community age 50 plus the opportunity to enjoy regularly group camaraderie by telephone at no cost. Initial funding from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust concludes on 31st March, however Age Scotland will continue Comradeship Circles as a volunteer-led service with some Circle groups merging. The service remains open for referrals, and to discussion with veterans’ service providers who are interested in being trained and supported to use Age Scotland’s digital telephony platform to host Circles for their members.
Comradeship Circles has made a huge difference to many otherwise socially isolated older members of the veterans’ community, throughout and beyond the pandemic, and has just marked its 600th Circle event. Circle members have enjoyed not only great chat, but also guest speakers from organisations including the Military Museum in West Lothian and The Royal Botanic Gardens. Coordinator Pam McLennan has been an excellent facilitator and will be much missed - we wish her all the best for adventures to come.  Find out more and make a referral

Military trauma podcasts

Combat Stress has produced a six-episode podcast series with heartrending stories of veterans who experienced unimaginable events and survived, but not without consequence. Listeners will learn about the reality of PTSD, depression and more.  Search ‘Combat Stress 100’ on apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Support for veterans with sight loss to enjoy sport

Sight Scotland Veterans Veterans Community Lead, Jason Duncan, is helping veterans to get active by participating in local sports groups as part of the charity’s new Hub Service. Jason is also looking for sports clubs to facilitate events for people with sight loss.  Contact Jason on 0800 035 6409.

Guidance for public bodies for applying the Armed Forces Covenant

Councils, NHS and other bodies are now legally obliged to pay ‘due regard’ to the principles of the Covenant when providing healthcare, education and housing services.  Guidance on how to apply that duty has been published.  Read the guidance

Research into experiences of women veterans

Combat Stress, working with the Women’s Royal Army Corps Association, has recruited 750 women veterans for a series of studies to better understand the experiences and challenges faced by women service personnel and veterans.  Find out more

Therapeutic gaming for veterans

Charity Game Therapy UK has developed therapeutic online gaming opportunities for veterans.  They are currently looking for serving military and veteran tabletop Role Playing Game players to join their new 'uniformed service' project, which will provide both a social hub for serving military and veteran gamers, but will also provide therapeutic gaming for struggling veterans as an alternative route to traditional support pathways.  Find out more

Scottish Veterans Awards finalists

You can find out who will be in this year’s final online, a list that includes some Unforgotten Forces partners Fighting with Pride and Veterans Tribe Scotland. Congratulations!  See the shortlist

Outdoor therapy for veterans

The Venture Trust has an Outdoor Therapy Service to support veterans and young people in Scotland. This service combines psychotherapy with time in natural environments, on occasion leaning on practices of meditation or mindfulness. The practices combined in the service have all been demonstrated to have a beneficial impact on our capacity to process difficult experiences, as well as develop helpful experiences.  Find out more

Age discrimination in Armed Forces Pension Scheme – consultation

The MOD is consulting on amendments to Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS) rules to remedy unlawful age discrimination affecting some members that arose when transitional arrangements were put in place when these schemes were reformed between 2014 and 2016.  The consultation closes 29th May 2023.  Find out more

Armed Forces radio now on DAB digital

Armed Forces broadcaster BFBS is now available on DAB digital radio in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Glencorse, adding to the existing FM services across the regions. There are live breakfast and afternoon shows weekdays from 6.30-10am and 1-4pm, bringing listeners local news, chat, music, and the latest global military stories in hourly news bulletins.  The DAB service also broadcasts BFBS’s worldwide network programmes, connecting audiences in Scotland with news and stories from the forces community across the UK and overseas.
BFBS Scotland is also available online, on the BFBS Radio app for iPhone and Android, and on smart speakers. The FM frequencies are: Edinburgh, 98.5, Fort George and Inverness 87.7, and Glencorse 94.0   

Communities Round-Up

Winter heating payments start

Winter Heating Payments have started to be made.  Winter Heating Payment has replaced Cold Weather Payment from the Department for Work and Pensions.  It provides a reliable £50 payment each year, to around 400,000 people on low-incomes. Find out more

Events and Training

Funding

Social isolation and loneliness fund (Scottish Government)

This is an open and competitive fund for third-sector organisations, grassroots and community groups based in Scotland. The aim is to support projects and organisations to facilitate progress towards the priorities of A Connected Scotland (2018) strategy, and contribute to the recovery and reduction in societal harm associated with the Covid-19 pandemic, and mitigate the impact of the ongoing cost of living crisis.  £3.8 million is available for three-year funding up to July 2026.
There are two application stages. Firstly, you will be asked to submit an expression of interest (EOI) and if successful, you will then be invited to stage 2 where you will complete a full application form.

Deadlines:
31st March 2023 for expressions of interest
28th April 2023 for full applications
 

News release
How to apply

The Household Hardship Fund

A £1 million fund offering small grants to charities and community groups across Scotland who can pass the funding on directly to families and individuals on low incomes.  Groups can apply for up to £5,000 to provide families and individuals with cash or vouchers to meet pressing needs such as food, fuel, household items or clothing.  All funds must be passed on to families and individuals by 30 June 2023.  Details and application

The Veterans’ Foundation

Grants of up to £30,000 to help veterans, qualified seafarers and dependants, who are in need.   Details and application   Next deadline 24th April 2023

Veterans' Services Update

The Veterans Guide to Later Life in Scotland 2023 edition

Age Scotland has published a new edition of its popular free advice guide for older ex-service personnel.

Topics covered in The Veterans Guide to Later Life include money, health, and housing, with information on rights and entitlements, and details of support organisations and services.

Postal copies of the Guide are available from the Age Scotland helpline 0800 12 44 222 and online.

If you have a previous edition of the guide please contact us to request replacement as some important advice has changed.

Read and order the guide

Pride in Veterans Standard Launched

LGBT+ Veterans charity Fighting with Pride has launched a Pride in Veterans Standard.

This programme is open to any organisation that provides veteran core services or support that wishes to visibly demonstrate its commitment to providing inclusive and welcoming support to LGBT+ veterans, serving personnel, and their families.

Find out more

New Fund for Veteran Medal Replacements

In November 2022, a fund was launched to enable veterans to reclaim the cost of replacing service medals that have been stolen or destroyed through an event such as a fire or flood.

Veterans resident in Scotland are now eligible to claim the cost of replacement medals if they can provide a copy of an insurance claim or, where appropriate, a police report.

Applications for medal replacements should be made through the Ministry of Defence Medal Office.

If the Medal Office is satisfied that the applicant meets the above criteria, they will send a letter to the applicant directing them to support with the cost of the replacement medals.

Apply to replace a medal

Support Hub for Sight Loss Launched

Sight Scotland Veterans has launched Support Hub service for veterans with sight loss and their families.

The Hub offers information and advice on a range of matters, including personal finance and access to grants.

A dedicated staff member has been appointed to support veterans with sight loss to access suitable local sports and physical activities opportunities.

You can contact the Support Hub on 0800 035 6409.

New Scottish Staff at RAF Benevolent Fund

The RAF Benevolent Fund has recruited two Welfare Support Executives in Scotland.

Veronica Young (North and East Scotland) and Caroline Belch (West and South Scotland) can provide specialist case work support to members of the RAF family who call the helpline 0300 102 1919 to request support.

The support is available to RAF veterans and their dependant family members.

Veterans and Families invited to have their say on wellbeing

The UK Veterans Family Study is inviting HM Forces veterans living in the UK, their spouses/partners and adult children, to have their say about the support they get, and the support they would like, for wellbeing.

So far hundreds of veterans and their family members in Scotland have taken part, but the researchers would love for Scotland to have an even stronger voice in the final report.

Study findings will be brought to the attention of politicians and other key decision makers relevant to veteran family support services.

Views from veterans’ families of all kinds are welcomed, including LGBTQ+.

In addition to the online survey, the researchers are happy to send out paper copies.

Every participant enters a draw for one of many £50 Amazon vouchers.

Where a veteran and at least one other family member take part, and their responses are linked, each participating family member will receive a £20 Amazon voucher.

All responses are anonymous, including from other family members.

The survey closes at the end of March 2023.

Take part online

Request paper copies – email ukvetfamilystudy@qub.ac.uk or call 028 9097 4387

UK Veterans’ Strategy Progress Update

The Office for Veterans’ Affairs in the UK Government has published an Action Plan to show how it will take forward its strategy for veterans.

Please note that some of the action areas will only apply in England, with the Scottish Government taking its own actions with regard to these.

Read the publication

Memorial Roll of Honour

HM Government has created an online Memorial Roll of Honour that commemorates services personnel who died on or after 1st January 1948, and in Palestine between 1945 and 1947.

Entries on the roll of honour database include: rank, type of service, regiment or corps, date of death, burial place, if known, and whether someone’s name is on the Memorial in the National Memorial Arboretum.

Visit the website

RAF Association Retirement Complex opens in Northumberland

The RAF Association has opened a retirement complex in the picturesque village of Rothbury, Northumberland.

Find out more

Communities Round-Up

Hearing Aid Batteries at Scottish Libraries

Many Scottish public library services provide a way for people to pick up hearing aid batteries in library branches.

Find out more

Online Guide to Tinnitus

Charity RNID has published a guide on how to live well with tinnitus.

Request the guide

Events and Training

Funding

Dementia Peer to Peer Grants

Age Scotland Age Scotland and About Dementia have launched a peer-to-peer grants programme will allow people living with dementia and current or former unpaid carers to apply for grants of between £500 and £10,000, with £260,000 available in total.

The grants are designed to empower people with dementia and unpaid carers to create their own peer support activities and projects.

These could be resources, community groups, research, pilot projects, or creative activities.

These grants can also be used to enable ordinary activities that improve the quality of everyday life for people living with dementia and unpaid carers.

Details and application

The Household Hardship Fund

A £1 million fund offering small grants to charities and community groups across Scotland who can pass the funding on directly to families and individuals on low incomes.

Groups can apply for up to £5,000 to provide families and individuals with cash or vouchers to meet pressing needs such as food, fuel, household items or clothing.

All funds must be passed on to families and individuals by 30 June 2023.

Details and application

The Veterans’ Foundation

Grants of up to £30,000 to help veterans, qualified seafarers and dependants, who are in need.

Details and application

Next deadline 24th April 2023

Veterans' Services Update

Unforgotten Forces magazine out now

Inside our latest issue are features of support for veterans in rural areas, a spotlight on the support needs of female veterans, introductions to new Unforgotten Forces partners Fighting with Pride and Blesma, and more.

Read and subscribe to Unforgotten Forces magazine

Partnership offers enhanced support for veterans with NHS appointments

With support from the Scottish Veterans Fund Unforgotten Forces partners DMWS and Fares4Free have boosted their partnership to better support veterans needing support and transport to attend health-care appointments.  In addition to the below news release, you can read about the enhanced service in the latest issue of Unforgotten Forces magazine.  

Read the news release

Emergency fuel grant for ex-RAF

The RAF Association is offering emergency fuel grants to RAF veterans affected by the cost-of-living crisis. 

Details and application

Independent inquiry related to Afghanistan

The UK Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Johnny Mercer has published an open letter following the announcement of an independent inquiry to investigate allegations of wrongdoing by British Armed Forces in Afghanistan.  In it he says “any veteran called up by the inquiry will be contacted by the Ministry of Defence in due course and full legal and pastoral support will be provided to you.” 

Read the letter

Research on veteran suicides

A new study from the University of Manchester has found that veterans over the age of 35 were at a lower risk of suicide than the general population, although younger veterans were at increased risk. 

Read the report

Soldiering on awards

Nominations opened on 9th January for the Soldiering On Awards, which celebrate ordinary people doing extraordinary things in support of the Armed Forces Community.  

Find out more and nominate

A decade of the Armed Forces Covenant

The Forces in Mind Trust has published a review of delivery and impact of ten years of the Armed Forces Covenant.  

Read the report

Communities round-up

Community Connecting

After a hiatus due to the pandemic Age Scotland has restarted its Community Connecting Service which connects socially isolated older people with community groups and activity opportunities that match their interests and circumstances. 

Find out more

Veterans’ community groups and services are invited to register their opportunities with Community Connecting with a view to receiving referrals from it.  To find out more and register email helpline@agescotland.org.uk.

Changes in the benefits system

Changes are afoot in the benefits system as responsibility for several of the most important benefits relevant to older people transfers from Westminster to the new Social Security Scotland agency.  

Read Age Scotland blog  Details of free Age Scotland benefits workshops.

Scottish Government cost-of-living crisis website

The website has a range of information on support available for households facing rising energy, housing and other costs.  

Visit the website.

Home safety concerns highlighted

Research by Age Scotland has found that 10 percent of over 50s with a carbon fuelled appliance in their home do not have a working carbon monoxide alarm installed.  The study also found that one in four over 50s do not have interlinked fire and smoke alarms.  In a blog the charity also highlights support available for installation of alarms to the current legal standard.  

Read more.

Events and Training

Funding

The Household Hardship Fund

A £1 million fund offering small grants to charities and community groups across Scotland who can pass the funding on directly to families and individuals on low incomes.  Groups can apply for up to £5,000 to provide families and individuals with cash or vouchers to meet pressing needs such as food, fuel, household items or clothing.  All funds must be passed on to families and individuals by 30 June 2023.  Details and application