Council commits two homes per year for disabled veterans

Midlothian Council is the first housing organisation in Scotland to sign up as a partner agency with the charity, Veterans Housing Scotland, in support of its new campaign to provide 25 more homes for disabled veterans across the country.

We will provide and maintain two homes per year

The council will allocate and maintain two properties a year for nominated disabled veterans and their families.  The first family could be in their home before Christmas.

Wellbeing a priority

Veterans Housing Scotland will look after the wellbeing needs of the tenants.

Fruitful meeting

Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing Councillor Stuart McKenzie met with the Chief Executive of Veterans Housing Scotland, Kevin Gray, and the council’s Housing Team Leader, Alex Marks, this week before the council was commended at a special campaign launch event in Edinburgh.

An honour

Cllr McKenzie said: “We’re honoured to be working in partnership with Veterans Housing Scotland.

Strong links with the Armed Forces

“With Glencorse Barracks in Penicuik within our county, we have a long tradition of supporting the Armed Forces. We are proud of their contribution and, in return, we provide support on a range of issues to serving personnel, veterans, reservists and their families within our community and our workforce.

Helping those who have served

“This new agreement with Veterans Housing Scotland to provide and maintain two homes per year for nominated disabled veterans is another important opportunity for us to help those who have served their country.

Can be difficult to adjust

“Many of veterans can struggle when they leave the Armed Forces and evidence suggests secure housing can minimise tenancy breakdowns, prevent homelessness and promote stable and sustainable communities.”

Working in partnership

The Chief Executive of Veterans Housing Scotland, Kevin Gray said: “We are delighted to be working with Midlothian Council on our 25 by 25 campaign.

Commended at ceremony

“The council received the first certificate given to supporters of our campaign and we are confident that other housing providers will follow their lead.  Working in partnership with local authorities and housing providers we will deliver 25 more homes for veterans by 2025.”

In the picture

Pictured from left to right are Housing Team Leader Alex Marks, Chief Executive of Veterans Housing Scotland Kevin Gray and Housing Cabinet Member Cllr Stuart McKenzie.