Scottish Veterans Commissioner

A new Scottish Veterans Commissioner has been announced by Veterans Minister Designate Graeme Dey.

Charles (Charlie) Wallace’s appointment will start in the autumn. He is currently Deputy Commander, 51^st Infantry Brigade and HQ Scotland and has had an exemplary 35 career in the Army. The role of Scottish Veterans Commissioner is unique in the UK and, since its creation in 2014, has been held by Eric Fraser.

It comes as the Minister Designate launched a new guide providing practical information about services available in Scotland to support service personnel and their families.

Speaking ahead of Armed Forces Day, Mr Dey said:

“Scotland has a long and proud military tradition, with more than 500,000 people in our armed forces and ex-service community. I firmly believe they are an asset to Scotland, and I want to ensure they are properly supported.

“The work of the Scottish Veterans Commissioner has led the way across the UK as a voice for veterans within Scotland. Charlie Wallace brings a great deal of experience from his long and distinguished army career and I am confident he will build on the excellent work delivered by Eric Fraser.

“It is also essential service personnel and their families living or moving to Scotland can benefit from everything we have to offer, which the guide I am launching will do.”

Charlie Wallace said:

“I am delighted to be taking up the appointment of the Veterans Commissioner from Eric Fraser, who has done such an excellent job in establishing the role.  I am really looking forward to championing the thousands of amazing veterans we have in Scotland and who contribute so much to our society.”   

Scottish Veterans Commissioner, Eric Fraser, said:

“I am absolutely delighted that Charlie Wallace has been appointed as the next Veterans Commissioner.  Having worked closely with him over the last couple of years I know he will bring enormous enthusiasm, energy and knowledge to the role and will work to ensure our veterans and their families receive the best possible support when needed, but also that they have the opportunity to make the maximum contribution to our communities across Scotland. I wish him every success in his new appointment.”

Background

In his new role, Mr Wallace will work to improve the outcomes for veterans in Scotland and will act as their ambassador. He will also seek to highlight opportunities and inform wider policy for the Armed Forces Community and families in Scotland.

The Welcome to Scotland Guide sets out key practical information about services available in Scotland in areas such as education, healthcare and housing.