War veterans receive drug support

The First Base Agency in Dumfries will provide support to veterans

A funding package has been announced to help war veterans and their families deal with drug dependency issues.

The First Base Agency in Dumfries will provide counselling and support to people affected by the issue.

It is one of 10 projects for war veterans across Scotland which benefited from the awards announced by Communities Minister Stewart Maxwell.

He said that men and women who had served in the armed forces during conflict deserved "lasting gratitude".

The projects are the first 10 successful applicants for funding from the Scottish Veterans Fund.

The First Base Agency in Dumfries specialises in supporting people affected by drug addictions.

This government is doing all it can to help our war veterans - they are heroes and deserve our lasting gratitude Stewart Maxwell Communities Minister

It will now be able to offer specialised services for war veterans and their families.

A range of other facilities have also benefited from the awards.

The Lady Haig Poppy factory will install a new ventilation system while the Scottish Association for Mental Health will produce a guide for those agencies working with veterans who have mental health difficulties.

In addition, the Scottish Veterans' Residencies will launch a new one-stop website focussing on housing for veterans.

Mr Maxwell said: "This government is doing all it can to help our war veterans.

"They are heroes and deserve our lasting gratitude for their selfless duty to their country.

"These projects will allow veterans across Scotland to use the skills, experience and confidence gained through their service careers as well as helping them adjust to civilian life."