The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Charity celebrates 10 years of support for thousands of UK forces personnel
ANNIVERSARY: Group has secured millions in benefits for clients in need
A Scottish charity that has helped support thousands of forces personnel and secure them millions of pounds in benefits celebrates its 10th anniversary today.
The Armed Service Advice Project (ASAP) has helped around 15,900 clients since it was formed in 2010, putting a total of £17.6 million into their pockets through welfare benefits, unpaid wages, compensation and other funding sources.
Run by Citizens Advice Scotland and funded by a coalition of military charities, led by Poppyscotland, ASAP offers specialist advice and support to veterans as well as serving forces personnel and their families.
ASAP national organiser Claire Williams said: “Most ex-service people get through life OK, but like everyone else they sometimes do need support with things like debt, poverty, housing or work issues.”
Former soldier Bruce Fraser, from Inverkeithing, who served in the Royal Scots for 25 years in Northern Ireland, Cyprus and the Falkland Islands, has been one of those to benefit.
Bruce, who suffered physical and mental health issues after leaving the forces in 1993, said: “When my social security was changed I did find it difficult to ask for help, but I’m so glad I did. I now have some peace of mind, thanks to them.”
Suzie Martin from Dairsie, who served in the WRNS and Royal Navy, also welcomed the support of ASAP.
“If it had not been for my ASAP adviser I would be still in that very dark place,” said Suzie.
Former soldier John Tervet, from Dundee, said ASAP staff had gone “over and beyond” in their support when he was recovering from heart surgery.
“To have my financial situation sorted out has been a weight off my mind.”