Information

You appear to be using an unsupported browser, and it may not be able to display this site properly. You may wish to upgrade your browser.

Support for the Armed Forces Community

For support purposes a veteran is anyone who either:

  • has served for at least one day in His Majesty's Armed Forces (regular and reserve)
  • was a Merchant Mariner who saw duty on military operations

If you're a member of the Armed Forces community, you may be able to get support in these areas:

Healthcare

There are health care options and support available specifically for the Armed Forces community.

If you have a health condition that's related to your service, you're entitled to priority treatment based on clinical need.

Housing

If you need help finding a place to live there's support specifically for the Armed Forces community.

Funding for education and training

You can get funding for qualifications if you've been in the armed forces.

Employability

If you're looking for a job, there are several organisations that can help you find a job or develop new skills.

Armed forces pensions

Armed forces and veterans pensions are administered by Veterans UK, part of the UK government.

Support organisations

There are a number of support organisations that can provide help to members of the Armed Forces community.

Scottish Government support

The Scottish Government is committed to making sure no member of the armed forces veterans community, including spouses and partners, in Scotland faces any disadvantage when accessing services and support. 

The Scottish Government has also appointed a Scottish Veterans Commissioner whose remit is to improve outcomes for all veterans. The commissioner is independent of the government and they have their own dedicated funding.

Local council and health boardArmed Forces and veterans champions

Local councils and NHS health boards in Scotland have Armed Forces and Veterans Champions. They are officials who help make sure the needs of the ex-service community are met in their area.

Apply for a veterans badge

The armed forces lapel badge is for veterans to show that they served in the armed forces.

Back to top