NOVA Scotland caseworkers Scott Muir and Terence Monaghan kicked off Armed Forces Week at Police Scotland’s annual Veterans’ Champions Event. It was a day to update, network and collaborate to support the veteran community.
NOVA Scotland works closely with Police Scotland’s Vulnerable Persons team to help identify, engage, and support veterans at risk of being involved in the justice system.
Their work together has driven over 211 referrals since January 2023. An incredible achievement for a growing relationship and testament to the fantastic veteran champions in Police Scotland.
Although the majority of veterans adapt well to civilian life, for others the transition can be more challenging. Issues such as poor mental health, addiction, or the lack of civilian connections can push them into contact with the justice system.
For these veterans, specialist support is transformative. The Police Scotland Veterans’ Champions Event 2025 was a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with sector professionals in our work to support this vulnerable community.
Learning from lived experience:
Scott and Terence were honoured to be joined by two veterans with lived experience of NOVA Scotland. Both spoke of the life-changing and life-saving support received and highlighted the importance of veteran-aware policing.
Army veteran Steven shared his journey from addiction and a mental health breakdown to his current place of stability. His turning point was his referral from Police Scotland to NOVA Scotland.
“When you leave the service, a lot of doors shut. I had my demons … the only way I can describe it is … you’re in a dark room and you have to feel around to try and find a way through, and that’s what it’s like every single day … I’d go as far as saying that I’m glad the police came that day. It was a blessing in disguise.”
Steven is sharing his story to benefit the Armed Forces Community and encourage referrals. Watch it here. #ThinkVeteranThinkNova #SayYouServed.
Professional collaboration:
Scott Muir, NOVA Scotland senior caseworker, said:
“Police referrals make a life-changing and life-saving difference to the veteran community in Scotland. Together, we are driving meaningful change and standing alongside the veteran community during their most challenging times. I look forward to building on our work together. It was a fantastic start to Armed Forces Week!”
Assistant Chief Constable Steve Johnson, Police Scotland said:
“The Veterans’ Champions event at Police Scotland headquarters yesterday was an opportunity to pay tribute to our officers and staff who have served or are Reservists. I am proud of the links between policing and our Armed Forces community, which includes organisations like NOVA Scotland, who support us and veterans who become involved in the justice system. Hearing the lived experiences of veterans supported by NOVA Scotland made an impact on us all yesterday, and I am grateful for the contributions they made to our event.”
NOVA Scotland would like to thank Police Scotland and our veterans with lived experience for sharing their stories of change.
NOVA Scotland is a support service for veterans in the justice system in Scotland, delivered by Forces Employment Charity.
Contact NOVA Scotland for more information.
