Call to arms for veteran befrienders

The Royal British Legion Scotland is urging those who served in the forces to help others who may be alone or struggling without support.
The charity has issued the call to arms to get volunteers with a military background to befriend veterans in Dumfries and Galloway who need a helping hand or a bit of company.
And they revealed there is a waiting list for befrienders.
Head of well-being at Legion Scotland Stephen Baird said volunteer befrienders provide vital support.
He said: “Befriending is the starting point. It’s about visiting veterans in their homes and if we find they have other needs, giving advice on issues like housing or benefits. It all starts with a cuppa and a chat.”
He added: “We need more volunteers to deliver this vital service in communities around Scotland.
“A volunteer would ideally have served in the Armed Forces or have a military background or family.
“It’s only a couple of hours of time a week and we provide full training.
“The more volunteers we have out there on the ground, the greater service we can deliver in every community in Scotland. We want to make sure no veteran in Scotland is alone or without the support they need.”
To apply or find out more about befriending, contact Stephen on 0131 550 1560 or email [email protected]