Veterans Support

Shared Parenting Scotland fully recognises the unique lifestyle of those that serve or have served in our Armed Forces and the toll this can take on family life especially when children are involved.

This specialised service is supported by the Veterans Foundation and it is being managed by one of the Shared Parenting Scotland staff, Mark Downie. We’re very grateful to the Veterans Foundation – this support will allow us to build up the work we have already been doing with veterans and serving parents who need help after separation.

Mark came to work with us in 2020 after having served in the Royal Marines from 1987 to 1997 and then in the police force for 24 years.

Mark turned to Shared Parenting Scotland for support in 2008 and was made very welcome and was given invaluable insight, moral support and practical assistance over many years.

In 2017 Mark was made a Trustee and then finally a staff member of the charity, where he works on the helpline assisting members of the public in dealing with a wide range of parenting, family, and court issues.

Shared Parenting Scotland is already supporting veterans who have been referred to us by some of the organisations listed below.

Mark has worked to establish strong relationships between Shared Parenting Scotland and Veteran’s organisations such as, amongst others, the below:

- Forces Children Scotland
- Veterans First Point Lothian
- SACRO Veterans Mentoring Service
- Lothians Veterans Centre
- The Royal Marines Charity
- The Royal Marines Club

Shared Parenting Scotland offer specialist advice but can also support Veteran families with family challenges such as family breakdowns, separation and of course, shared parenting.

Shared Parenting Scotland are here to fully support our serving or veteran military parents when families separate and can offer a range of help including;

- Free Help, Support & Advice from our Helpline
- 24 hr WhatsApp peer support groups
- Self-help Guides
- Training Courses in Communication Skills, Stress Management, Dealing with High Conflict Situations