EAST Renfrewshire veterans are set to receive more support to ease their transition after leaving the armed forces. 

The Scottish Government has unveiled new plans to “ensure every veteran feels more valued, supported, and empowered”. 

The Taking the Strategy Forward in Scotland report is part of a 10-year programme focused on improving the lives of veterans and has been created in collaboration between Westminster and the devolved Parliaments

Minister for Veterans Graeme Dey said: “The Scottish Government will continue to give the utmost importance to improving the support for our veterans community.

“We owe our veterans and their families nothing less.”

Following a consultation with more than 60 organisations and groups, from local authorities and health boards to veterans’ charities and housing associations, the Scottish Government has now released an updated strategy to improve the lives of ex-servicemen and women.

The strategy’s mission statement is to ensure veterans and their families “transition smoothly back into civilian life and contribute fully to a society that understands and values what they have done and what they have to offer”.

Mr Dey added the consultation has given the Scottish Government “a clearer picture than we’ve ever had before about the needs of the veterans community”.

“The vast majority thrive and make a significant contribution to the success of our country, from the knowledge and skills they offer employers and businesses through to the positive impact they and their families have on local communities,” he said.

Mr Dey explained the “key themes” where work needed to be done were “community and relationships, employment, education and skills, finance and debt, health and well-being and making a home in society”.

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