Lotto £120k cash boost will benefit forces veterans
Armed forces veterans with life-changing injuries are set to benefit from a massive cash boost after a Renfrewshire based social enterprise received a £120,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund.
Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (SBMC), will now be able to provide manufacturing training opportunities for 150 disabled or long-term unemployed over three years.
Run by the Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI), the Renfrewshire based factory gives armed force veterans, like 38-year-old triple amputee Gary Jamieson, the chance to earn a living while developing new skills in manufacturing activities including printing, signage and product engineering.
Gary, from Strathaven, lost both of his legs below the knee and his left arm above the elbow while on patrol in Afghanistan in 2010 with the 1st Battalion Scots Guards. Through SBMC, he has been trained as a water jet cutter and will soon be passing on his skills to other veterans.
He said:“Coming from an army background I am used to being busy and surrounded by other people. I never thought I would get the opportunity to do this kind of work and that all these opportunities might be open to me. Not only am I getting specialised skills but real experience of working in a busy factory, learning about how the business operates.
“Working here has given me a real structure to my life and I look forward to coming in every day, not only for the work but for the camaraderie that I have really missed. I look forward to helping other veterans and being an example to them. If I can do it with no legs and one arm then they can do it too.”
Michelle Ferguson, Director of Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, added:“The vast majority of veterans leave the Armed Forces and transition relatively easily to civilian life, while for some, they can face immense difficulty in adapting when facing challenges with life-changing injuries and mental health conditions.
“We can now ensure that our veterans are given the bespoke welfare support and training they need to develop their talents, acquire new skills and go on to reach their potential in the world of work.”