Charity warns forces veterans to ignore 'never volunteer' motto
Suicide prevention charity Mikeysline is seeking armed forces veterans to volunteer to help comrades suffering illnesses such as combat stress.
From feedback received at the Inverness text-for-help service, it has been found that former forces employees can be a vulnerable group.
Mikeysline founder Ron Williamson (pictured) said there had previously been a fantastic response to the charity’s appeal for ex-forces volunteers, despite the old forces rule "never volunteer for anything".
Mikeysline is also in "loose" discussions with Help For Heroes as plans advance to open the Hive – Mikeysline’s planned new crisis drop-in centre in Inverness – remain on track for December.
It is envisaged that Help For Heroes will have use of the centre one or two days each month with a view to helping veterans and current members of the forces.
Mr Williamson said: "We know of some vets who have been experiencing difficulty and have been in touch.
"We are looking to recruit one or two volunteers with experience of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health issues, to help run those nights.
"You may already be part of the Band of Brothers or Sisters, or you may have gone through therapy yourself, come out the other side, and be willing to share your experience with others in need."
He said those who have nursed veterans with problems would also be invaluable, and one volunteer to come forward was a nurse in Germany at the time of the Bosnian conflict and who has "vast experience" in PTSD.
Mr Williamson pointed out that new figures have shown that people are at their most vulnerable and in need of support in the two weeks after leaving mental health treatment or therapy, and that is what the Hive aims to provide.
The Hive Project will be modelled on a group of five centres located in Aldershot, Farnham, Guildford, Woking and Farnborough which offer a safe, supportive and therapeutic environment which promotes independence and recovery in the community.
The project is expected to open at a location in Academy Street on December 4.
Meanwhile, SoBar in Castle Street, Inverness will be hosting a fundraising quiz night in aid of Mikeysline on September 29 at 7.30pm.Mixed martial arts fighter Ross Houston will be there.
Text Mikeysline on 07779 303303. Visit www.mikeysline.co.uk
