Scottish veterans fund open for applications

A funding scheme to support veterans in Scotland has opened for applications, Veterans Secretary Keith Brown has announced.

Organisations planning projects offering new approaches to problems faced by former members of the armed forces in areas such as health, housing and employment can bid for the cash.

The Scottish Government is contributing £360,000 to the Scottish Veterans Fund between 2017/18 and 2019/20 with Standard Life giving £240,000.

The latest round of funding for 2018/19 is open to projects of one and two years.

Announcing the opening of the fund at the 2017 Armed Forces and Veterans Champions Annual Gathering in Glasgow, Mr Brown said: “Our veterans enrich our society and deserve the highest level of advice, support and care which is why the Scottish Government remains committed to supporting them and their families.

“No member of the armed forces, veteran or families of those in the armed forces should face disadvantage when it comes to accessing services and support.

“For almost a decade, the Scottish Government’s Scottish Veterans Fund has made a real difference to the lives of the armed forces community in Scotland and has provided £1.1 million to a host of veterans and ex-service charities that offer advice, help and support.

“I look forward to seeing a strong portfolio of applications again this year.”

Picture: Kim Cessford. Veterans Secretary Keith Brown.