Scottish Veterans Commissioner calls for faster progress on veteran support
The Scottish Veterans Commissioner has published her 2026 progress report, calling for faster action to improve support for veterans and their families in Scotland.
The annual report reviews progress against recommendations made by the Commissioner’s office, which the Scottish Government has committed to implementing.
Scottish Veterans Commissioner Susie Hamilton said there had been some headway, but described the overall picture as “muted” and said progress had slowed in key areas.
The report highlights limited activity on recommendations from the Veterans and the Law report and the Veterans and Finance report. The Commissioner said she was disappointed by the low level of general activity in these areas.
The report also points to the length of time taken to develop the Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Pathway, although it notes that some significant milestones are expected this year.
Housing is another area of concern. The Commissioner welcomed new Local Housing Strategy guidance, which asks local authorities to consider the needs of the Armed Forces and veteran community, including spouses, partners, children and the bereaved. However, she said there had been minimal progress on implementing the Veterans Homelessness Prevention Pathway.
The report also highlights low uptake of the GP Recognition Scheme, which was launched in 2023 to help recognise the specific needs of veterans in primary healthcare. The Commissioner said sign-up remains inadequate, with around 5% of GP practices registered.
The broader relevance
Veteran support depends on more than national commitments. It also depends on whether those commitments translate into clear routes, recognised needs and practical support where veterans and families live.
Primary care, mental health, housing, finance and legal support can all affect stability after service.
For veterans and families, progress is likely to be felt through ordinary contact with services: a GP practice understanding service-related context, housing systems recognising Armed Forces needs, and support pathways being easier to find and use.
The report applies to Scotland.