Scottish Veterans Residences helps with housing

Ex-servicemen and Women who are struggling to avoid homelessness can get help from a charity based in Scotland. Scottish Veterans Residences (SVR) is committed to taking care of those who selflessly served in combat and are now finding it difficult to consistently maintain a proper residence.

A housing support service provides the guidance necessary for tenants to navigate a housing crisis. The purpose is to help each person resolve arrears, landlord and tenant disputes or other issues that are causing their continued housing to be in doubt. If a small situation can be resolved, an eviction can be prevented thereby avoiding a larger problem.

SVR has established a transitional housing support programme in Glasgow. The Bellrock Close development is a formal alternative to the traditional types of temporary accommodation. Residents are sheltered for a few months while they learn good habits, save money for a future rent deposit and pay of any debts. These debts can include arrears from a prior tenancy. This facility is a great option for someone who cannot find a permanent home due to previous financial difficulties or credit challenges.

Housing is provided through the charity’s housing association. The Scottish Veterans Housing Association (SVHA) restricts available rental units to actual veterans who have served this nation proudly. There is no age restriction. Anyone who served in a military conflict may apply for a tenancy within one of the vacant properties administered by the association.

SVHA currently manages properties in Dundee and Edinburgh in addition to the transitional support programme in Glasgow. These homes are rented to veterans and their families.

Anyone who would like to request information on how they may qualify for one of these tenancies may call on 0131 556 0091 to reach the main office in Edinburgh. Direct telephone is also available at one of the properties:

• For Belrock Close transitional support programme in Torbay, call on 0141 766 2580. A total of 21 flats are offered at affordable rates. An additional transitional support unit includes 30 flats.
• For Rosendael in Broughty Ferry, call on 01382 477078. This Dundee residence houses 126 veterans in en-suite rooms, plus 25 separate flats.
• For Whitefoord House in Edinburgh, call on 0131 556 6827. This is the oldest housing facility owned by the organisation.

Those who have served in the military can take comfort in seeking aid through this charity. SVR is over 100 years old, having housed people since 1910. It is actually the oldest ex-Service charity of Scotland.

Some residents arrived because they were unable to work. Many had a service-related disability resulting from an injury or some other chronic condition.

Some veterans suffering from PTSD and other combat injuries find it difficult to maintain stability in their housing and employment. The support offered to these residents by SVR helps them to manage their situation through a combination of assistive services and stable housing.

Those who need help from mental care professionals can get the services they need to overcome or manage their symptoms. The Veterans Housing Support Service includes referrals to physicians and counsellors to ensure that no person suffers alone. The care that is provided shows that this is more than just a housing service for Scottish veterans.