Scottish Borders Council Veterans Champion, Cllr John Greenwell, and local MP, John Lamont are urging local charities to apply for funding to support work with veterans and Armed Forces members.
The Armed Forces Covenant Fund, usually worth £10m per year, is worth double (£20m) this year to help support veterans’ mental health.
The fund, set up by the UK Government as part of their commitment to veterans, aims to create positive change for Armed Forces communities across the UK.
Charities operating in the Borders have previously been successful in applications for funding.
The First Light Trust, which has a café hub on Hawick High Street, was awarded a total of £44,900 in 2020 to support their work.
Mr Lamont and Cllr Greenwell have written to a number of charities in the Borders to highlight the opportunities provided by the fund.
As Champion for Armed Forces and Veterans at Scottish Borders Council, Cllr Greenwell works with local charities to support their work.
John Lamont MP said:
“The Armed Forces Covenant Fund supports fantastic initiatives up and down the country, including charities here in the Borders.
“Although there is only a small military presence in the Borders, there are still a lot of veterans and serving Armed Forces families who live here.
“Cllr Greenwell and I want to see more charities here in the Borders being supported in their work to help the brave men and women who have served their country.
“With the Armed Forces Covenant Fund doubling this year to support veterans’ mental health, there is plenty opportunity for our local charities to benefit.”
Cllr John Greenwell, said:
“As Champion of Armed Forces and Veterans I work closely with several charities in the Borders who are making a real difference to people’s lives.
“Scottish Borders Council already support initiatives like Veterans Breakfast Clubs which provide an environment of support and camaraderie.
“The Armed Forces Covenant Fund is a key backer of projects that support Armed Forces communities and their families.
“I hope to be able to assist any charities who feel this funding will help them support our Armed Forces communities.
