Scottish Veterans Commissioner visits Glasgow’s Helping Heroes

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12 March 2024

Glasgow’s Helping Heroes (GHH) recently received a visit from Susie Hamilton, the Scottish Veterans Commissioner and a retired Royal Navy lieutenant commander.

It was the first time the Commissioner had visited GHH and it proved a valuable opportunity for those there – clients and staff – to share their experiences with her.

Born and educated in Edinburgh, Susie served in the WRNS and the Royal Navy as an officer in the Marine Engineering Branch. She undertook several shore and sea appointments including operational service in the Adriatic and the Gulf.

On retiring from the Royal Navy as a lieutenant commander, she worked for a short period in industry, followed by volunteering work with Scottish Veterans Residences.

Speaking during her visit, the Commissioner said: “Glasgow’s Helping Heroes provide a vital service for veterans and their families, and it was a pleasure to visit and hear more about they support they provide. I was hugely impressed by their collective skills and experience but even more importantly by how much they care about the work they do. They really are making a difference.

“I was also delighted to meet Flo, Agnes, Frank, and Anna and hear first-hand about their experiences, and thank you to the team for hosting me, and for the important support they provide.”

Speaking for GHH, its Operations Manager Ryan MacDonald, said: “We were really pleased to welcome the Scottish Veterans Commissioner and her team to our offices at SSAFA Glasgow’s Helping Heroes.

“Susie spent time with our staff team and some of our beneficiaries, discussing the barriers facing our Armed Forces Community and how we support our beneficiaries to overcome those barriers.

“The role of Scottish Veterans Commissioner is essential in making life better for veterans and their families living in Scotland, so we really appreciate the continued support from Susie and her team.”