Veterans Honor Fallen Comrades at Inverness War Memorial

Veterans impacted by sight loss gathered at the Inverness War Memorial to lay a wreath in advance of Remembrance Sunday. This poignant event allowed individuals supported by Sight Scotland Veterans to pay tribute to those who have fallen in combat. Attendees included veterans who traveled from distant locations, such as Gairloch, to participate in the ceremony.

The gathering provided an opportunity for these veterans to connect with one another in a quiet setting before the larger observances of Remembrance Sunday. Sight Scotland Veterans offers essential support to individuals across the Highlands who are either diagnosed with sight loss or experiencing it without a formal diagnosis.

Jenny Liddell, the outreach practice lead for the north and northeast at Sight Scotland Veterans, emphasized the comprehensive nature of the organization’s mission. “We don’t just support people who have lost their sight because of active combat. We support any veteran who is experiencing sight loss, and you don’t even have to have a diagnosis,” she explained.

Liddell highlighted the emotional toll that a sight loss diagnosis can take on individuals. “Very often, when someone gets a sight diagnosis, there’s a feeling of deep bereavement because you can no longer see like you used to,” she said. She noted that many veterans living in and around Inverness, as well as those from the Highlands of Moray, Aberdeen, and Aberdeenshire, may be unaware of the services available to them.

This lack of awareness is concerning, as the assistance provided by Sight Scotland Veterans can significantly improve the quality of life for veterans coping with vision impairments. “There are a lot of people who can benefit from our services and we’re just desperate to reach them because we know what we can do helps with everyday tasks,” Liddell added.

The charity’s support ranges from practical assistance—such as safely making a cup of tea—to helping veterans navigate their communities and manage personal correspondence. “It’s really important for people to be independent,” Liddell stated. The organization also collaborates with other agencies that focus on mental health issues related to military service.

The services offered by Sight Scotland Veterans are completely free, making them accessible to all qualifying individuals. Liddell encouraged anyone interested in learning more about the support available to contact the organization at 0800 035 6409.

As veterans continue to honor their fallen comrades, organizations like Sight Scotland Veterans play a crucial role in ensuring that those who have served their country receive the support they need during challenging times.