Erskine launches £330,000 home support scheme for aging vets
Speaking to The Herald, retired Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, who heads up the charity, said the new programme will provide veterans with much-needed companionship and assistance with shopping and getting to doctors' appointments.
He said: 'I'm acutely aware of how vital home services are - but they are too often under-resourced and rushed.
'It's become clear to me that the bond staff have with service users goes beyond personal care and extends to the time they spend together.
'It's about having a friendly face to talk to, get fresh air with, and go shopping together.'
Scotland marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day earlier this spring. (Image: Gordon Terris/The Herald) Each veteran enrolled in the scheme receives a weekly visit lasting at least 90 minutes, and support varies on individual circumstances and needs.
Cumming says it is important that veterans are cared for by people who empathise with their experience.
'On the whole, most veterans thrive in the community once they've left the service,' he said. 'Most do not have sensory impairments or PTSD, but when issues like bereavement, divorce, or the early symptoms of dementia crop up, it can be difficult to deal with.
'That's why it is important that veterans are supported by people who know how they tick.'
A successful £250,000 pilot programme was trialled in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde, and is now being rolled out more widely in conjunction with Erskine's Veteran Activity Centres, located in Forres and Bishopton.
A third centre is set to open next year in Fife.
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Cumming added: 'This service will be delivered free of charge. We don't want anyone who needs help not to get in touch because of money.
'We need to fundraise around £10m over the course of the year to ensure public support, and we are grateful for the public's support of our work thus far. We'd encourage people to donate and remember us in their wills.
'This scheme is not intended to replace home care services,' Cumming noted. 'Rather, it will complement it with regular visits and support.'
'I'd encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch.'
Founded in 1916, Erskine provides a range of support for veterans outwith the home support programme; including nursing facilities, end of life care, and a 44-cottage 'Veterans Village'.
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The Herald Scotland
8 hours ago
- The Herald Scotland
Erskine launches £330,000 home support scheme for aging vets
Speaking to The Herald, retired Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, who heads up the charity, said the new programme will provide veterans with much-needed companionship and assistance with shopping and getting to doctors' appointments. He said: 'I'm acutely aware of how vital home services are - but they are too often under-resourced and rushed. 'It's become clear to me that the bond staff have with service users goes beyond personal care and extends to the time they spend together. 'It's about having a friendly face to talk to, get fresh air with, and go shopping together.' Scotland marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day earlier this spring. (Image: Gordon Terris/The Herald) Each veteran enrolled in the scheme receives a weekly visit lasting at least 90 minutes, and support varies on individual circumstances and needs. Cumming says it is important that veterans are cared for by people who empathise with their experience. 'On the whole, most veterans thrive in the community once they've left the service,' he said. 'Most do not have sensory impairments or PTSD, but when issues like bereavement, divorce, or the early symptoms of dementia crop up, it can be difficult to deal with. 'That's why it is important that veterans are supported by people who know how they tick.' A successful £250,000 pilot programme was trialled in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde, and is now being rolled out more widely in conjunction with Erskine's Veteran Activity Centres, located in Forres and Bishopton. A third centre is set to open next year in Fife. Read more: Cash for Charities: Veterans' charity Erskine in bid for funds for life-saving tests Celebrate Burns Night and Support Scotland's Veterans at the Erskine Burns Supper Agenda: Working to improve the care given to our veterans Cumming added: 'This service will be delivered free of charge. We don't want anyone who needs help not to get in touch because of money. 'We need to fundraise around £10m over the course of the year to ensure public support, and we are grateful for the public's support of our work thus far. We'd encourage people to donate and remember us in their wills. 'This scheme is not intended to replace home care services,' Cumming noted. 'Rather, it will complement it with regular visits and support.' 'I'd encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch.' Founded in 1916, Erskine provides a range of support for veterans outwith the home support programme; including nursing facilities, end of life care, and a 44-cottage 'Veterans Village'.
The Herald Scotland
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