VPPP and collaborative working benefits Veteran Community

Under our VPPP project we have been seeing some excellent results of our collaborative working, highlighting the benefits of us all working together within the sector. Collectively we have been supporting Kevin, who is going through a torrid time at present as the result of a recent spinal cord injury and a diagnosis of complex PTSD. 

Tam Douglas, Veteran Community Support Manager, Legion Scotland

Tam has been a life saver assisting Kevin over the past few months, going above and beyond as always.  Tam has also been supporting Kevin to attend weekend breakfast clubs in his battle against loneliness and isolation and was instrumental on engaging back in with DMWS when extra support was needed.

Samantha Wilkie, Welfare Officer, Defence Medical Welfare Service

Samantha took control of Kevin’s case and has been magnificent in fighting for what Kevin should be entitled to advocating for him at every opportunity and more importantly empowering Kevin on his journey to recovery. Samantha has been instrumental in developing Kevin’s confidence and enrolled Kevin on a 10-week long lifestyle course which started last week within the Erskine Complex in Gilmerton, Edinburgh.

Mike Brown, Outreach Support Driver, Fares4Free

Transport is one of the main barriers for anyone suffering from complex PTSD and Kevin was clearly anxious before his first trip, but the early rapport building from Mike and the Fares4Free team made all the difference and ensured Kevin was able to attend this course.  Kevin was extremely grateful to Mike and made it very clear that without Fares4Free he would not have been able to attend this course. It’s now Mike's job to ensure that he supports Kevin for the next 9 weeks helping him to successfully complete this treatment plan and then support Kevin with reintegration back into his local community, along with the help and support of Legion Scotland.

"Kevin like many other veterans I have met since joining the Fares4Free team, has really inspired me. He has had a life changing injury and is facing it head on in true military style. With the support now in place I hope he can overcome some of the issues he is experiencing, and I will be here to support him throughout. Since joining Fares4Free I have felt humbled by many of the individuals I have met, and I am really enjoying being part of this amazing service delivery that we offer."

Mike Brown, Outreach Support Driver, Fares4Free

If you are experiencing any similar issues and don't know where to turn, please feel free to call us on 0141 266 6000, Mon to Fri, 0900 - 1700 and we will be glad to help signpost and support you.  Alternatively please feel free to email us at bookings@fares4free.org .