After leaving the Army, Roxanne faced periods of homelessness, mental health challenges, and ongoing pain from an old injury. With support from Lothians Veterans Centre (LVC), a charity funded by the Army Benevolent Fund, she found safe housing, help with her medical needs, and a community that has helped her rebuild her life.
Roxanne served with the Women’s Royal Army Corps (WRAC) for nearly three years. Following her service, she became a mother and grandmother, but her life has at times been marked by significant difficulties. After arriving in Scotland, she turned to LVC for support. “My saviour has been LVC”, she says. “When I arrived, you found me a safe home, helped with my medical needs, and supported me to secure housing and benefits.”
At LVC, Roxanne found more than practical help. The centre provided a safe and welcoming space where she could connect with other veterans and regain her confidence. She became a regular visitor before moving away in 2021.
After her marriage broke down, Roxanne returned to LVC seeking support. Struggling with her mental health, she once again found stability through the centre and its community. “If it hadn’t been for the women veterans’ meetings, I may not have been able to stay alive this year”, she says. “They are my lifeline.”
Through LVC, Roxanne has received support for her mental health and help with housing, as well as the opportunity to reconnect with other women veterans. “We laugh together, cry together, and support each other. It’s so much more than a gathering. I have been given back my life.”
LVC provides a safe and supportive environment for veterans, offering practical help, advice and opportunities to build connections and confidence. With annual funding from the Army Benevolent Fund, the centre continues to help veterans like Roxanne regain stability and move forward with their lives.
“From the bottom of my heart, a huge thank you to LVC and the ABF”, Roxanne says. “You are invaluable to me.”