Meet Cobseo’s Members: Scottish Veterans Residences (SVR)

Tell us about your organisation…

SVR is Scotland’s oldest miliary charity, established in 1910. We provide support and accommodation to Veterans of the Armed Forces and Merchant Marine who are homeless, at risk of homelessness or in need. Our own vision is for all veterans to live as independently as they are able in a place they are proud to call home. Our service is open to ex-Service men and women of all ages, from throughout the UK. We provide supported housing at three sites: in Edinburgh at Whitefoord House (83 rooms); Rosendael in Dundee (44 rooms) and Bellrock Close in Glasgow (30 self-contained flats).

During their time as residents of SVR, Veterans are offered 1-to-1 support; occupational therapy; counselling; benefits advice; employment, training and volunteering opportunities; and participate in a number of activities. We provide residents with a home as long as they need it, recognising each person has an individual set of circumstances and progresses at their own pace. Our hope is to provide Veterans with the tools and support which will enable them to move back into independent living, and – where possible – employment. In 2025, we provided support to 246 residents and 86 were able to move on to their own tenancies or other supported accommodation.

How does your organisation support the Armed Forces Community?

Throughout our history, SVR has embraced and built strong and enduring links with the Armed Forces and Veterans community. As well as being active members of Cobseo and Veterans Scotland, we work closely with other Veterans and Military charities and groups, including Scotland’s Veterans Wellbeing Alliance and the Unforgotten Forces partnership.

What makes you proud of the work in the sector?

We are proud to see collaboration for the greater good, and the community coming together to achieve the best possible outcomes for Veterans, especially those who are vulnerable and in need of support.

How does being a Member of Cobseo help you to do your work?

Being a member of Cobseo provides the opportunity for representation and advocacy. If an organisation’s case or cause is compelling, Cobseo’s advocacy on its behalf within the charitable sector, or with departments of government, can add considerable weight, and be helpful in giving visibility.

Participation in a relevant thematic Cluster, in our case Housing, provides peer support, technical and sector currency, and when appropriate, the ability to compare practise, and to benchmark. That is helpful, adds value, and brings us knowledge and exposure to the experience of others.