The White Ensign Association welcomes the latest report from the Scottish Veterans Commissioner, Veterans and Finance, which highlights the importance of financial stability in enabling successful transitions from military to civilian life.
We were pleased to contribute to the consultation process and are encouraged to see that many of the themes explored in the report closely reflect the issues we raised through our work with the Naval community in Scotland.
The report explores key issues affecting financial wellbeing in the veteran community — including access to welfare systems, Armed Forces pensions and compensation, and the growing concern around gambling harms. It also recognises the valuable skills veterans bring to Scotland’s financial sector and the strength of partnership working across statutory, military and third-sector organisations.
Recently we’ve seen a marked rise in demand for our support in Scotland. Since introducing a dedicated Regional Manager post two years ago, the number of beneficiaries supported across Scotland has more than trebled. Alongside regular group presentations, tailored one-to-one casework has helped individuals navigate complex matters with clarity and confidence — ensuring they are better equipped to “Leave Well” as they transition from Service.
“Every week, we support individuals in Scotland who are navigating the financial realities of life after Service. Whether it’s understanding Armed Forces pensions, exploring Armed Forces compensation, dealing with money worries or accessing trusted financial advice, the need for clear, independent guidance remains high. This report is a welcome recognition of those challenges, and the importance of removing barriers to support so that veterans can achieve and maintain financial stability.”
At the WEA, we provide free, independent guidance to the Naval community on:
- Armed Forces pensions, compensation and personal financial matters
- Civilian employment, retraining and resettlement
- Accessing professional services advice for personal, welfare and domestic matters
In 2024, we supported more than 7,200 individuals across the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Fleet Auxiliary – both serving and veteran – and their families. Our team remains committed to ensuring timely, trusted guidance is available to all who need it – wherever they are based.
📖 Read the full report: scottishveteranscommissioner.org/report-veterans-and-finance
📊 Read our latest Impact Report: whiteensign.co.uk/annual-review-2024
