HARPER HIGHLIGHTS REGION’S VETERAN’S WORK
The excellent charitable work of SWS RnR, a Dumfries based charity which helps military personnel into employment, was congratulated by Minister for Veteran Affairs, Graeme Day last week in the Scottish Parliament following a question from South Scotland MSP Emma Harper.
Ms Harper, who was successful in getting the Minister to visit SWS RnR last year, asked him during a parliamentary statement, what support could be provided for SWS RnR.
Run by veteran Robin Hood, the charity has recently commenced work with Dumfries & Galloway Council and the local National Farmers Union (NFU) helping veterans access jobs in agriculture, and through developing additional opportunities to qualify as HGV drivers.
In response to Ms Harper’s question, the Minister highlighted the Scottish Government’s Veterans Strategy, led by a dedicated veterans employability group, which focuses on pathways into employment and opportunities including training, education and immediate routes into work.
He also mentioned initiatives such as Fair Start Scotland and specific work such as the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework’s partnership project which maps military qualifications against those that are recognised by employers.
Emma Harper South Scotland MSP commented:
“It was excellent to receive such a positive response from the Minister for Veteran Affairs about what support is available for veteran charities such as SWS RnR – a great example of best practice, driven by Robin Hood and Archie Dryburgh, who clearly impressed the Minister with their dedication to their valuable work.
“I have visited and engaged with SWS RnR on a number of occasions, as well as the Dumfries Veterans Garden, and look forward to continuing to help and support both organisations in the future.
“Veterans are an asset to our society and deserve the best possible care and support including obtaining housing and jobs when they retire from the military.”
Councillor Archie Dryburgh said;
“South West Scotland RnR is a charity that has expanded into the training area over the past two years. Not only as the Armed Forces Champion for Dumfries & Galloway but as Vice Chair of SWSRnR I would say it is important to have as many opportunities in the region to try and bring our ex forces’ families here and also try and build and expand on those skills already in the region. There will be many opportunities in the future and we want to ensure that our veterans have a great chance of obtaining jobs here.
For more information on SWS RnR visit
