The “hidden” status of Scottish veterans and their families was highlighted in a Scottish Parliament member’s debate secured by North East MSP Liam Kerr.
The debate follows a motion lodged at Holyrood last year recognising the role 320 such charities play in the country.
Mr Kerr urged the Scottish Government to look at ways it can support smaller veteran’s charities such as Aboyne-based Horseback UK.
He said: “A YouGov survey for the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association Forces Help—SSAFA Forces Help— conducted in October 2017 shows the extent of the problems that veterans face: 33% of former services personnel feel isolated or lonely due to mental or physical health issues, 34% feel overwhelmed by negative feelings and 27% admit having suicidal thoughts after finishing their military service.
“I also understand only 60% of working-age veterans are in work compared with 73% of the United Kingdom population.
Mr Kerr continued: “The scale and nature of the charities differ massively. There are the large nationally recognised organisations, such as Poppyscotland and the Royal British Legion Scotland.
He concluded: “I urge the Scottish Government to continue to look at ways in which we can highlight and support veterans charities and groups, particularly smaller ones such as HorseBack UK.”
Responding, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work, Keith Brown said: “The third sector in Scotland is strong and dynamic, and it plays a crucial role in the wellbeing of our communities.
“We are fortunate to have a good mix of people and organisations within the veterans community who are making a real difference.”
