Support for Veterans

CONTACT DETAILS

THISTLE FOUNDATION

13 Queen's Walk, Niddrie, Edinburgh, EH16 4EA
0131 661 3366
SERVICE LOCALITY
North East
LAST UPDATED
30 Jan 2023

KEY
INFORMATION

Who is the service for?
Young People (16-25), Adults, Older People
What age range is it suitable for?
17 - 25, 26 - 29, 30 - 34, 35 - 39, 40 - 44, 45 - 49, 50 - 54, 55 - 59, 60 - 64, 65+

ORGANISATION
CONTACT DETAILS

13 Queen's Walk, Niddrie, Edinburgh, EH16 4EA
0131 661 3366

DAY(S) / TIME(S)
AVAILABLE

MONDAY: -
TUESDAY: -
WEDNESDAY: -
THURSDAY: -
FRIDAY: -
SATURDAY: -
SUNDAY: -

information SERVICE DETAILS

Support for veterans

We offer wellbeing support to current and ex-service men and women.

Supporting Veterans is a huge part of history and it remains a key part of our work through the Lifestyle Management Course for Veterans. This 10 week course of group sessions is designed around a balance of planned discussions, safe and appropriate exercise and therapeutic relaxation.

Adjust to civvy street

Working with veterans is a key part of our work. There are many organisations that support veterans and many of them refer them on to us. We often describe our work with veterans as a bridge to other veterans' services - it doesn't matter what a veteran is going through or how many attempts it takes us to engage, we're here. Veterans help deliver the courses and understand how important it is to provide a safe space to share.

For some veterans, adjusting to civilian life can be hard. At Thistle, we provide a safe space for veterans to share experiences and support one another.

What makes Thistle different

Thistle was established to support veterans returning from the Second World War and we are proud to still be supporting veterans today.

We work with veterans at all stages of life after service - and our support is shaped and delivered by veterans who have been through the course themselves and continue to support the work through volunteering.

- Open, welcoming support, regardless of history or circumstance
- Choose from one-to-one support, group work or both
- Tailor-made courses, accessible gym and exercise classes

Veterans’ Programme

Our Veterans’ Programme is led by experienced practitioners, and trained volunteers. It’s a specially structured course designed to support veterans and their friends and family.

- Weekly, three-hour sessions in a safe, supportive environment
- Build confidence and self-esteem
- Learn to cope with stress and anxiety
- Take control of your mood by understanding anger and recognising triggers

We also offer phoned-based 1:1 support.

Thistle's Shed

The Thistle Shed is a safe and relaxed place for veterans to spend their time. We've got a range of tools and materials suited for a variety of activities. You decide what to do and have a say in how The Shed runs.

Mondays 1:00pm - 4:00pm at the Garden Suite (off Queen's Walk, Craigmillar)

What’s next?

You can come in for an informal chat or we can meet you somewhere you feel safe and comfortable. If you prefer, you can give us a call. You don’t need a referral to get in touch, but you’re welcome to have someone contact us on your behalf. You’re in control.

Referrals...

Self-refer, or ask someone who supports you to refer you, by emailing referrals@thistle.org.uk or contact our Veterans Practitioner Claire on 07471 030 957.

Other Services Run By

Thistle Foundation

Copyright © 2024 EVOC is a company limited by guarantee No. SC173582 and is registered Scottish charity No. SC009944.
Registered Office: 525 Ferry Road, Edinburgh EH5 2FF