Erskine Veterans Activity Centre North opens in Forres

A new wellbeing centre for anyone who has served in the Armed Forces has opened.

The £1.3 million transformation of the 1864-built Victoria Hotel on Tytler Street, in Forres, into the Erskine Veterans Activity Centre North (EVACN) is complete.

It will offer a range of support for veterans in the north of Scotland and aims to attract more visitors to the town.

Scaffolding appeared around The Vic’ in May after Scottish charity Erskine bought the building from previous owners Alec and Marlene Ross, who had carried on running it following the death of previous owner Jock Benzie in 2019.

Chief executive at Erskine, Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, confirmed EVACN has been established following extensive research into needs in Moray, home to Scotland’s highest concentration of veterans.

He said: “The Forres community has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.

“Through surveys and community sessions, we have ensured the centre meets the needs of those it serves, from veterans to their families and neighbours.

“This partnership is what makes EVACN truly special.”

The state-of-the-art hub offers resources, peer support, and tailored wellbeing programmes designed to address the unique challenges faced by veterans.

With activities ranging from sports and recreation to arts and mental health initiatives, the centre provides a welcoming environment where veterans of all ages can connect with one another, learn new skills, and find renewed purpose after service.

Wg Cdr Cumming said: “Our goal is to provide a safe, inclusive space where veterans can find support.

“The transition from military life to Civvy Street for most veterans is seamless and they thrive within their civilian communities, welcoming new opportunities and building fulfilling lives.

“However, for some, challenges may arise - whether immediately or years down the line - leaving them feeling isolated, lonely or even in need of direction.

“During such times, finding connection, support and comradeship within an active and welcoming veteran community can be a powerful way to boost both physical and mental wellbeing.

“That’s exactly what our EVACs are here to provide.”

Used as a blueprint for EVACN, the Erskine Reid Macewen Activity Centre (ERMAC) in the Erskine Veterans Village in Bishopton opened its doors in 2018. It has since become a cornerstone for veterans in the west of Scotland, offering a wide array of activities, and support services.

Erskine is dedicated to replicating this model, ensuring that veterans in Moray and the Highlands benefit from the same opportunities for growth, connection, and support.

Wg Cdr Cumming added: "ERMAC has shown us what is possible.

“We have seen veterans regain their confidence, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships while once again finding the camaraderie they cherished during their military service.

“Replicating this presents an incredible opportunity to help even more veterans reconnect and thrive.”

Erskine has recently launched a support at home pilot service in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde, and plans for further activity centres are under way.

Wg Cdr Cumming said: "We are exploring the possibility of establishing similar Veterans Activity Centres across Scotland by 2026. It’s an exciting time for Erskine, and we’re honoured to lead the charge and provide futures for the brave.

"Our veterans have given so much for their country, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they receive the care and recognition they deserve.

“EVACN embodies that mission and represents a brighter future for veterans and their families. The potential is limitless.”