Robert Kemp

Established in 1915, formerly Scottish Veterans Garden City Association, Edinburgh-based Veterans Housing Scotland aims to provide affordable rented housing for military veterans in Scotland who are disabled. 

To recognise the sacrifices made, and to honour the concept of those disabled in service of their nation coming back to a country fit for heroes, it was agreed that a scheme based on the Garden City concept be created. This would give those who had been injured hope of a secure home in a safe community.

Group Captain Kemp has wide experience of working with forces’ charities including as director Scotland RAF Benevolent Fund; Trustee Erskine Hospital and as a member of the Scottish Government’s Panel for the Commemorations of World War One. 

He has worked with Veterans Housing Scotland for around 15 years and is looking forward to the opportunity of developing the ‘Community within a Community’ ethos.

He said: “Today in Scotland, around 3% of all those assessed as homeless by local authorities are military veterans. The vast majority of those transitioning from military service do so without the need for further support however for some there will always be a need for ongoing assistance. By providing a safe and secure home in a supportive community we are helping our veterans take the first steps to building a strong future for themselves and their families.

“Covid-19 has presented a new challenge for everyone, particularly charities like our own.  As we look ahead to life post-restrictions the needs of our veteran community will always be at the forefront of our work in becoming Scotland’s leading provider of homes for veterans who are disabled.”

Today, Veterans Housing Scotland owns and manages more than 650 properties around Scotland housing over 1000 veterans and their families and is proud to have HM The Queen as Patron.