A "bold" new approach is aiming to evolve veteran care in Scotland.
Erskine, a veteran care charity, has announced a new six-year strategy focusing on earlier intervention and support within local communities through expanded outreach and new Erskine Veterans Activity Centres (EVACs) across the country.
The strategy for 2025–2031 marks a move towards community-based, preventative support, reflecting demographic changes and the needs of a younger, more dispersed veteran population.
Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, chief executive of Erskine, said: "Those who serve enter into a social contract with the nation, accepting risk, separation and sacrifice on our behalf.
"Our duty, in return, is support.
"This strategy is about honouring that contract in a modern Scotland.
"We are ready to be bold.
"While others may be stepping back from physical presence, we intend to step forward, reaching more veterans, earlier, in more communities across the country.
"Our care homes will always remain a sanctuary for those who need them.
"But if we are serious about veterans and their families truly thriving, we must intervene to prevent crisis, reduce isolation and help shape positive futures long before residential care is required.
"That is what this strategy will deliver."
Read more
Veteran care director to retire after nearly 10 years of 'transformational' service
Fundraiser for MND set to take place in Kilbarchan this weekend
Centrepoint success for Sefyu - Run every day and don't give up
Erskine will continue operating its two care homes in Bishopton and Edinburgh, as well as providing 44 family cottages, retirement apartments, and 23 Transitional Supported Accommodation (TSA) apartments.
However, the primary focus over the next six years will be on growing its community services.
This includes the development of additional EVACs, expanding home support, and improving outreach for veterans in non-Erskine care homes.
Target areas for new centres include Fife, Edinburgh, Aberdeenshire, Perth/Stirling, and the south-west of Scotland.
Erskine estimates there are around 176,000 veterans in Scotland, with more than 50,000 elderly veterans and spouses potentially in need of support.
The strategy aims to address issues early by supporting veterans’ transition to civilian life, reducing isolation, and building stronger community networks.
Read more
Paisley man kicks off 3000m trek across US with support from 'King of Hollywood'
Meet Lockie the playful crossbreed at Dogs Trust waiting for his forever home
'A light in the darkness' - Renfrewshire Carers Centre marks 30 years of support
New services under consideration include veterans’ holiday and carers’ breaks, micro transitional accommodation in underserved areas, a benevolent fund for unexpected post-service costs, and redeveloping estate assets to increase supported living options.
In 2025, Erskine required £10 million in fundraised income to sustain its operations.
The new plan targets at least £15 million annually to support expanded services and national reach.
The charity is confident it can meet this goal through continued public support.
Share