Moray has Scotland’s highest proportion of veteran households
Moray has been revealed as the most “veteran-rich” area in the country, as charities stress the “vital role” played by the community.
Data shows that the top three Scottish wards, ranked by the proportion of veteran households, were all in Moray.
According to Census data released earlier this year, the average household in first-placed Heldon and Laich was three times more likely to have at least one veteran compared to the Scottish average.
More than a fifth of households in the ward, which covers Scotland’s only operational airbase at RAF Lossiemouth, featured one or more member who had served in the armed forces.
The next-highest rate was in Forres, home to Kinloss Barracks and previously RAF Kinloss, while Fochabers Lhanbryde placed third.
Lieutenant Commander (retired) Susie Hamilton, the Scottish Veterans Commissioner, said the new data “underscores the vital role” played by those with military experience.
She said: “I am encouraged to see the identification and recognition of the significant veteran population in Moray.
"Veterans bring a wealth of skills, experience, and resilience to the areas they settle in, contributing not only to the workforce but also to the social fabric of their communities.
“However, with this comes the responsibility to ensure they are fully supported as they transition to civilian life.
"Moray’s veteran-rich population highlights the importance of appropriate support services that address issues such as health, housing, and employment.
“Collaboration between public bodies, employers, and voluntary organisations is essential to ensuring that veterans and their families can thrive, bringing in return valuable contributions to their communities in Moray.”
In total, six of Moray’s eight wards feature in the top 11 areas of Scotland with the highest proportion of veterans.
Sarah Medcraf, CEO of Moray Chamber of Commerce, said the “veteran-rich” nature of Moray presented an “excellent opportunity” for local firms.
“It’s not surprising to see the data highlighting Moray as the most veteran-rich area in Scotland,” she added.
“From a business perspective, hiring veterans is an excellent opportunity.
“Veterans bring a wealth of transferable skills, including leadership, discipline, and problem-solving, which are highly valuable in any workplace.
“Their experience in high-pressure environments often translates into great teamwork, resilience, and the ability to adapt to challenges – all traits that contribute to business success.”
“The veteran population in Moray offers local employers access to a diverse talent pool with a wide range of skills, from technical expertise to project management.
“Many businesses here have already benefited from tapping into this resource, and it’s something we’re keen to see grow further.
“The Chamber is committed to supporting inclusive employment practices and helping businesses recognise the benefits of hiring from all backgrounds, including veterans.
“We are also happy to connect employers with support networks and resources that make the recruitment process easier.”
Erskine, a charity which provides a range of support for veterans, is set to open a Veterans Activity Centre within the old Victoria Hotel in Forres.
Chief executive Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE said Moray had “stood out as a priority” when the charity was considering areas that required improved support services for veterans.
“Opening our new Veterans Activity Centre in Forres is a significant step driven by careful research and a clear understanding of the needs in Morayshire,” he added.
“With a population of over 94,000 and the highest concentration of veterans in Scotland, many of whom reside in communities like Heldon and Laich, Forres, and Fochabers Lhanbryde, this area stood out as a priority.
“Our new Erskine Veterans Activity Centre (EVAC) will provide veterans with opportunities to connect, develop new skills, and access tailored support, ensuring they continue to feel valued and supported within their community.
“We are committed to ensuring they receive the support they deserve and look forward to the positive impact the new centre will have across Morayshire."