Erskine Veterans Activity Centre North in the former Victoria Hotel, Forres has been open for a month
A wellbeing centre opened in Forres for just a month already has more than 80 members.
Housed in the former Victoria Hotel, the Erskine Veterans Activity Centre North (EVACN) offers resources and tailored programmes, from recreational activities and peer support to mental health and well-being initiatives, to address the unique needs of post-service life.
Erskine chief executive, Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, confirmed the centre aims to empower veterans, helping them transition from military service to civilian life “while rediscovering purpose and connection”.
"The success of the EVACN has exceeded all expectations,” he added. “Reaching 80 members so quickly is a testament to the strength of the veteran community and the need for spaces like this.
“We’re proud to offer a hub that fosters well-being, friendship, and growth for those who have given so much for our country."
The Forres centre is modelled on the Erskine Reid Macewen Activity Centre (ERMAC) in Bishopton, which has served veterans in the west of Scotland since 2018. ERMAC’s success - signing up 466 members aged between 28 and 99 since opening its doors - inspired the expansion into the north.
ECACN now offers the same opportunities for connection and support - members have already reported life-changing benefits.
One said: “When men and women leave the armed forces, many of them feel lost so having a place like this in Forres is a godsend. Veterans relate to one another’s experiences and talk the same language. There’s nothing else like this in the area.”
Erskine is committed to further growth. Plans are in place to open additional centres and to integrate services such as the charity’s ‘Support at Home’ programme.
Wing Commander Cumming added: "Our veterans deserve the best, and we are determined to provide it."
For more information visit www.erskine.org.uk. To donate directly to Erskine, visit Erskine.org.uk/donate.