Civilian Life in the Scottish Borders

SUPPORT FOR VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES IN THE SCOTTISH BORDERS FOREWORD SCOTTISH VETERANS’ COMMISSIONER

I am delighted to endorse this guide for veterans produced by Scottish Borders Council. As part of my role as Scottish Veterans’ Commissioner, I am always seeking opportunities to promote the benefits veterans and their families bring to our communities. But in order for them to maximise what it is they bring, they need to be properly informed about what there is in their new community. This Guide does so much to achieve this and I am delighted to see a community such as the Scottish Borders take the time to make our ex-Service people and their families so welcome. I am sure this guide will help to reinforce the Scottish Borders as a destination of choice for service leavers.

Colonel Charles Wallace

FOREWORD COUNCILLOR JOHN GREENWELL VETERANS CHAMPION, SCOTTISH BORDERS COUNCIL

I am delighted to present this updated version of the ‘The Civilian Life in the Scottish Borders’ guide. The previous guide was well received and needed to be updated to reflect new services and changes to services.

Given the contribution Armed Forces Veterans have given to the country, they and their families have the right to access high quality healthcare, housing, education, transport services, and support and access to employment opportunities. This guide will assist them in doing this.

I know at first hand the needs of veterans and importance of signposting to the right service. The guide has been designed to provide useful and practical information on a range of topics that will help veterans to settle, feel supported and play an active part in community life in the Scottish Borders

In the preparation of the guide information has been provided by a range of organisations including Veterans Scotland, Scottish Borders Council, NHS Borders, Registered Social Landlords, Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Borders College, and the Voluntary Sector. I would like to thank them all for their contribution.

Councilor John Greenwell

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 3 Courtesy of VisitScotland Borders www.visitscottishborders.com Borders of VisitScotland Courtesy

CONTENTS Civilian Life in the Scottish Borders 5

SECTION A Specific support available for veterans and their families 9 HOUSING - Housing for Scottish Veterans 9 - The Scottish Veterans Garden City Association 9 - Single Person Accommodation Centre for the Ex-Services (SPACE) 10 - Low Cost Initiative for First Time buyers (LIFT) 10 - Disabled adaptation works 11 Private Landlords 12 Registered Social Landlords 12 Border Choice Homes – Homehunt™ 13 Berwickshire Housing Association Ltd 14 Eildon Housing Association 14 Waverley Housing 14 Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA) - Homechoice 14 Scottish Borders Housing Association Ltd 15 Scottish Housing Options (SHOP) 15 Homelessness Services 15 Scottish Borders Council’s Domestic Abuse Advocacy Support (DAAS) Service 16 Deposit Guarantee Scheme 17 Who is eligible? 17 Housing Benefit 17

SECTION B Specific support available for veterans and their families 19 EMPLOYMENT The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) 19 - RFEA - The Forces Employment Charity 19 - Offices Association (OA) (Scotland) 19 Jobcentre Plus Armed Forces Champions 20 Jobcentre Plus 20 Skills Development Scotland 20 Self employment 21 Financial services 22

SECTION C - Medical 23 - Health Centres and Surgeries 24 HEALTHCARE Specific support available for veterans and their families 25 - Priority health treatment 25 - Mental health 25

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 5 SECTION C - Prosthetic limb provision 25 - NHS waiting list 25 HEALTHCARE - Ministry of Defence Medical Assessment Programme (MAP) 25 Organisations providing help and advice specifically to Veterans 26 - Combat Stress 26 - Big White Wall 26 - Rivers Centre for Traumatic Stress 27 - Sensory Services team 27 - Veterans F1rst Point (V1P) 27 NHS 24 helpline 28 Accident and emergency department at the Borders General Hospital, Melrose 28 Dental NHS Borders Dental Service 28 Borders Sexual Health Genito Urinary (GU) Medicine and Family Planning 29 Mental health services Borderline 29 General health advice and information 30 Health Rights Information Scotland (HRIS) 30

SECTION D School education 33 Early learning and Childcare 33 EDUCATION, Specific support available for veterans and their families 34 SKILLS AND - Education Scholarship Scheme 34 TRAINING - Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) 35 Further education and training 36 Learning in the community 36 Adult literacy 37 English for Speakers of Other Languages 38 Internet access/public libraries 39

Specific support available for veterans SECTION E and their families 43 WELFARE Social Work services 50 Welfare and Benefits Service 51 ADVICE Contact Centres 51 AND SUPPORT Citizens Advice 52 Samaritans 53 Online Borders 54 Border Women’s Aid 54 Domestic Abuse Advocacy Support Service 55 Victim Support 56 Drug & Alcohol Support Services 56

SECTION F Bus Companies 59 Concessionary Travel 59 TRANSPORT Community Transport 60 Rail Travel 60 Taxi Companies 61

SECTION G Police 63 Fire and Rescue service 63 USEFUL NHS 24 helpline 64 Scottish Borders Council CONTACT Social Work Services 64 NUMBERS Antisocial Behaviour Team 64

SECTION H Scottish Borders Council 65 Community Councils 65 COMMUNITY Community centres 65 Churches and places of worship 66 INVOLVEMENT Gypsy/travelling people 66 AND Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender groups 66 Sport and leisure centres 67 VOLUNTEERING Volunteer Centre Borders 68 Councils for Volunteer Service Network 68 Youth work services 69 Alternative format/language 70

SECTION A HOUSING

SPECIFIC SUPPORT AVAILABLE FOR VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES

Many service personnel can HOUSING FOR SCOTTISH face difficulty in finding a home VETERANS on discharge. You may not have Housing and accommodation for enough money for a mortgage, Veterans and their dependants require special adaptations or in Scotland is provided by a have no connection to the area number of independent charitable where you would like to live. organisations. All of these organisations are members of The Scottish Government's Veterans Scotland and they work leaflet 'A Scottish Housing together to provide the best Guide for people leaving the possible service to Veterans and Armed Forces and ex-serving their dependants. personnel' has useful guidance on housing options in Scotland, THE SCOTTISH VETERANS answering some of the questions you may have and offers GARDEN CITY ASSOCIATION information on support and advice The Scottish Veterans' Garden available. You can download a City Association (SVGCA) has 35 copy of this at www.gov.scot/ properties for rent in the Scottish Resource/0041/00418039.pdf Borders. SVGCA is a Scottish- based Charity providing rented Your options depend on where housing for permanently disabled you want to live, your needs and ex-servicemen and women, your situation. These options Merchant Navy, Police and Fire could include renting a property Service personnel throughout privately or through a Council Scotland - and have been doing so housing association (sometimes for more than 95 years. Scottish known as a Registered Social Borders Housing Association Landlord) or an ex-service (SBHA) currently manages 27 personnel charity, or buying a of these properties located in property. Hawick, Newtown St Boswells,

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 9 Walkerburn, Innerleithen and ex-service personnel becoming Peebles. The others are managed homeless or sleeping rough after by Berwickshire Housing discharge. Association. RIVERSIDE is a project based Housing Application Process within the Resettlement/Welfare If you think you might be eligible complex at Catterick Garrison, and are interested in housing North Yorkshire. It provides with SVGCA or any of the other an accommodation placement housing charities, please visit service for single personnel www.veteransscotland.org.uk being discharged from all and complete the central housing three services. SPACES works register on-line application alongside JSHAO. form. Alternatively you can call Veterans Scotland direct on Tel: 01748 833797 0131 550 1569. email: [email protected] email: gensecveteransscotland. www.riverside.org.uk org.uk LOW COST INITIATIVE FOR The Scottish Veterans' Garden FIRST TIME BUYERS (LIFT) City Association (Inc) LIFT is a Scottish Government New Haig House initiative to help households get 66 Logie Green Road onto the housing ladder and aims Edinburgh to help first-time buyers, such as EH7 4HQ people living in social housing; Tel: 0131 557 1188 people in the Armed Forces or Fax: 0131 557 5819 veterans; widows, widowers email: [email protected] and other partners of service www.housesforheroes.org.uk personnel, and people living in private rented housing or with SINGLE PERSON relatives. ACCOMMODATION CENTRE FOR THE EX-SERVICES LIFT initiatives include: • New Supply Shared Equity - to (SPACES) allow first time buyers to buy This service is designed to a new build property from a help single ex-regulars find housing association. appropriate accommodation • Open Market Shared Equity when they leave the armed - to allow first time buyers to forces. Through this service the buy a property on the open project reduces the likelihood of market.

Further information on the above initiatives is available Tenants of Registered Social from Scottish Borders Council Landlords who require works and Registered Social Landlords need to be assessed by a social (local Housing Associations). worker or an NHS occupational Contact details are listed further therapist. These works are on in this section. arranged by the landlord and funded through Government For veterans who have been grants. seriously injured, Registered Social Landlords can offer Both the above services are additional flexibility to make it conditional on funding availability easier for people to purchase a and priority placed by your bigger property than they would occupational therapist following normally be entitled to, or by assessment. reducing the minimum stake they need to purchase, ensuring that For more information on an individual property meets your Disability Adaptations call: requirements. The Social Work Duty Hub DISABLED ADAPTATION Tel: 0300 100 1800 WORKS Following assessment and Borders Care & Repair recommendation by a local social Tel: 01750 724895 worker or NHS occupational therapist a request can be made for Disabled Adaptation works with grant funding assistance. This applies to private owners and private tenants where the applicant will qualify for a minimum 80% grant or may qualify for a grant of between 80% and 100%, depending on an income assessment.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 11 PRIVATE LANDLORDS For more information on your Private accommodation is rights, your lease/tenancy advertised in weekly local agreement or your landlord’s newspapers. These include the: responsibilities you can: • Berwickshire News • call Shelter on Freephone 0808 (published on Thursdays) 800 4444, (9am - 5pm), Monday • Border Telegraph to Friday. www.shelter.org.uk (published on Wednesdays) • The Hawick Paper REGISTERED SOCIAL (published on Fridays) LANDLORDS (also known as • Peeblesshire News Housing Associations) (published on Fridays) Social rented accommodation • Southern Reporter provides affordable homes for (published on Thursdays). people in housing need and Housing Associations are the main providers You can also find accommodation of affordable social housing for through local estate agents and people in the Scottish Borders. solicitors who publish the free Each Housing Association allocates Border Solicitors Property Guide, their homes according to their available from solicitors’ offices rules set out in their Allocations and branches of most banks. Policy and decide who gets housed Details are also available on the based on the priority awarded to website www.bspc.co.uk applicants from the information they provide on their application *Rents will vary according form. Your priority will be based on to location and facilities in your housing need and situation. the property, such as central Generally, the higher your priority, heating, double glazing, extra the more likely you are to be offered bathrooms and garden. a home, but this also depends on the needs of other people on the All private landlords must be housing list and the size and type of registered with Scottish Borders houses that become available. Council. For your own protection, you should not rent property For a full list of housing providers from a private landlord who is in the Scottish Borders, visit www. not registered. Call the Housing scotborders.gov.uk/directory/27/ Strategy Team at Scottish registered_landlords_and_ Borders Council on 0300 100 housing_associations. Several 1800 to find out if a landlord is of the housing providers on registered.

this site specialise in providing level. As well as lower rents accommodation for older people than the private rental market, and those with special needs or mid-market rent offers tenants disabilities. assurance that they will be getting a good quality home with a The four main housing associations landlord who offers high standards with homes in the Scottish Borders of service. are: To apply for a Housing Association Berwickshire Housing Association home you should contact your Tel: 01361 884 000 preferred housing provider for www. berwickshirehousing.org.uk information and advice about their email: info@berwickshirehousing. application process. org.uk Eildon Housing Association ltd BORDER CHOICE HOMES - Tel: 03000 200 217 HOMEHUNT™ www.eildon.org.uk Berwickshire Housing Association, Scottish Borders Housing Eildon Housing Association and Association Ltd Waverley Housing, along with Cairn Tel: 01750 724444 Housing Association (a national www.sbha.org.uk housing provider) advertise their email: [email protected] vacant properties through Borders Waverley Housing Choice Homes. Tel: 01450 364200 You can register with Borders www.waverly-housing.co.uk Choice Homes online at www. email: [email protected] homehunt.info or by contacting These Housing Associations award one of the participating landlords. priority for housing to serving Properties available for rent are personnel and their families advertised each week in the press planning on leaving the armed (Berwickshire News and Southern forces or those who have recently Reporter), in participating left and wish to return to the landlords’ offices and on freephone Scottish Borders to live, subject to 0800 587 4868. specific criteria being met. If you would like to speak to Some Housing Associations in someone for more information, the Scottish Borders also provide contact any of the Borders Home mid-market rental homes which Choice housing associations: are aimed at helping households on modest incomes to rent BERWICKSHIRE HOUSING accommodation at an affordable

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 13 ASSOCIATION LTD with approximately 700 homes Duns (Head Office) becoming available to let each year, 55 Newtown Street across a range of types and size. Tel: 01361 884 000 SBHA lets its houses through the Eyemouth SBHA HomeChoice allocations 38 Church Street system. Homes available to rent Tel: 01890 750888 from SBHA are advertised on www.berwickshirehousing.org.uk SBHA’s HomeChoice website at email: info@berwickshirehousing. www.sbhahomechoice.org.uk, org.uk on facebook www.facebook.com/pages/SBHA- EILDON HOUSING HomeChoice/785422111538869 and in all SBHA Offices and weekly ASSOCIATION in the local press including the Selkirk Southern Reporter and the Hawick The Weaving Shed, Ettrick Mill, News. Dunsdale Road, TD7 5EB Reception: Tel: 01750 725900 SBHA HomeChoice offers you a Customer Services: quicker and easier way to register Tel: 0845 604 3733 for housing by completing a simple www.eildon.org.uk application form either online at www.sbhahomechoice.org.uk or by WAVERLEY HOUSING returning a completed form to any Hawick (Head Office) SBHA office. Once registered, you 51 North Bridge Street, TD9 9PX can apply for properties advertised Tel: 01450 364237 at any time (24 hours a day, 7 days a www.waverley-housing.co.uk week) either by visiting the website, email: info@waverly-housing. using the SBHA HomeChoice co.uk automated bidline by telephoning 0845 873 6464 or visiting the SCOTTISH BORDERS website. HOUSING ASSOCIATION (SBHA) - HOMECHOICE If you are interested in housing With over 5800 affordable rental with SBHA and would like houses throughout the Scottish further information and advice Borders, Scottish Borders Housing on your housing situation, Association (SBHA) is the largest please contact SBHA by emailing operating Registered Social [email protected]. Landlord in the Scottish Borders uk or contacting any SBHA Office

where staff will be happy to help you. properties across 30 council areas in Scotland. SCOTTISH BORDERS www.bield.co.uk HOUSING ASSOCIATION LTD email: info@ Selkirk (Head Office) scottishhousingoptions.org South Bridge House, Whinfield Road TD7 5DT Tel: 01750 724444 Bield Housing Association (Head Office) Galashiels Office Tel: 0131 273 4000 2-12 Church Street TD1 3JN Hanover (Scotland) Housing Tel: 01896 662870 Association Tel: 0131 557 7404 Hawick Office www.hanover.scot West Port, Drumlanrig Square email: [email protected] TD9 0BG Trust Housing Association Tel: 01450 360650 Tel: 0131 444 1200 www.sbha.org.uk www.trustha.org.uk email:[email protected] HOMELESSNESS SERVICES All offices open: Scottish Borders Council operates Mon-Thurs 08:45 – 17:00 this specialist service. It offers Fri – 08:45 – 15:45 support and advice on all matters relating to homelessness and re- SCOTTISH HOUSING OPTIONS housing. The office can be contacted at: (SHOP) Paton Street SHOP is a national common housing Galashiels register developed by Bield, Hanover TD1 3AS (Scotland) and Trust Housing Tel: 01896 661385 Associations, who provide housing Freephone: 0800 376 1138 options for people, including some designed specifically for older Making an appointment is people. recommended. Office hours are: Mon – Thurs 08:45 – 17:00 The aim of SHOP is to make applying Fri 08:45 – 15:45 for housing as simple as possible. Only one single application is needed Information and advice relating to apply for all three associations, to homelessness is free. But you which manage more than 400 may have to meet criteria to get developments - around 10,000 funding for accommodation.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 15 SCOTTISH BORDERS providing free legal and impartial COUNCIL’S DOMESTIC ABUSE advice in confidence to anyone ADVOCACY SUPPORT (DAAS) with a housing problem. Call Shelterline Freephone SERVICE 0808 800 4444 from 09:00 - 17:00, The Domestic Abuse Advocacy Monday to Friday. Support (DAAS) Service is a dedicated service established to Scottish Borders Council gives support victims of domestic abuse housing information and advice on and in particular, high risk cases a wide range of housing subjects, in the Scottish Borders. The DAAS such as: Service will take referrals for both • information on your housing female and male victims of domestic options and local housing abuse. You can phone DAAS directly providers for confidential advice, support and • information on housing information on 01835 825024. issues, such as rent arrears or AntiSocial Behaviour If you are a woman who is homeless • advice on what to do if you are through escaping domestic abuse homeless or threatened with you can contact: homelessness. • Borders Women Aid on 01835 863514 Visit www.scotborders.gov.uk/ • The National Domestic Abuse Life/housingservices/index.html Helpline on 0800 027 1234. DEPOSIT GUARANTEE Scottish Borders Children1st Domestic Abuse Community SCHEME Support service provides long term The Deposit Guarantee Scheme practical and emotional support (DGS) helps people who are to adults (men and women) and homeless or who are at risk of children/young people to support becoming homeless to secure their recovery from domestic private rented sector housing. abuse. Available across the Scottish You need to meet certain criteria. Borders, the service provides face Information is provided by Scottish to face and telephone support, is Borders Council’s Homelessness a confidential service and free to Services Team (contact details access. Contact Children1st on provided in the previous section). 01750 22892. Some tenants who want to rent Shelter Scotland helps over half a privately cannot afford to pay the million people a year struggling with deposit required by landlords. bad housing or homelessness by Under the Deposit Guarantee Scheme, Scottish Borders Council 16 | WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE INTRODUCTION | HOUSING | EMPLOYMENT | HEALTHCARE | EDUCATION, SKILLS AND TRAINING WELFARE ADVICE AND SUPPORT | TRANSPORT | USEFULL CONTACTS | COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND VOLUNTEERING provides a guarantee that the circumstances but you can find out deposit will be paid if any damage is whether you are likely to qualify by done to the property while the tenant using the calculator available at is living there. www.scotborders.gov.uk- searchforbenefitscalculator Additional benefits for landlords include help with drawing up For further information you should tenancy agreements and making contact Customer Service staff at inventories and inspection checklists Scottish Borders Council on 0300 for properties, as well as information 100 1800 or by visiting your nearest and advice on good practice. Council Contact Centre (details on page 40). Who is eligible? The prospective tenant must be Your local citizens advice bureaux homeless or at risk of becoming (CAB) can also give you information homeless and be able to provide and advice to help you access all the evidence of the following: benefits you are entitled to. You can • a low income find out where your local CAB office • eligible for housing benefit is on their website, www.cas.org.uk, • unable to raise the full rent or you can visit www.adviceguide. deposit by own means org.uk/scotland, their information • have difficulty in accessing social website. housing.

Prospective tenants will not be eligible if they have: • rent arrears on previous tenancies • been served with an Antisocial Behaviour Order • other reasons that may jeopardise access to a tenancy.

For more information visit: www.scotborders.gov.uk/20048/ homeless/203/deposit-guarantee- scheme

SECTION B EMPLOYMENT

SPECIFIC SUPPORT AVAILABLE FOR VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES

THE CAREER TRANSITION RFEA – THE FORCES PARTNERSHIP (CTP) EMPLOYMENT CHARITY The Career Transition Partnership Along with the Officers’ Association delivers free resettlement services and Officers’ Association to all ranks of the British Armed (Scotland), RFEA delivers the Forces, to make the transition employment arm of the CTP, from military to civilian life providing job-finding assistance to as smooth and successful as all leavers of the Armed Forces. possible. Depending on length of This support includes advice and service, the CTP provides flexible guidance on the local job market, support from two years before CV and interview techniques and discharge, through to two years job matching, and is available after, including careers guidance, from the day of discharge without workshops, vocational training restriction of time thereafter. and access to employers who Further information can be found value the considerable skills and at www.rfea.org.uk experience ex-military personnel Tel: 0121 262 3058 bring to the civilian workplace. email: [email protected] Service leavers should speak to their Service Resettlement Adviser OFFICERS’ ASSOCIATION to check eligibility and register. For (OA) (SCOTLAND) more information on the Career As part of the CTP’s employment Transition Partnership, visit arm, the Officers’ Association www.ctp.org.uk (Scotland) provides professional, job Assistance impartial and practical advice to Tel: 0121 236 0058 commissioned officers and ex- email: [email protected] officers on all aspects of transition Resettlement Enquiries and employment. The as providing Tel: 0203 162 4410 relevant contacts from their network, seeks to refine skills

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 19 such as self-appraisal interview JOBCENTRE PLUS techniques and preparation, Jobcentre Plus has thousands of networking and CV construction. new jobs available every week. You Further information can be found can also look for voluntary work at www.oascotland.org.uk which can help you develop and Tel: 0131 550 1575/1581 learn new skills while you’re looking email: [email protected] for a new job.

JOBCENTRE PLUS ARMED The central contact number for all three offices in the Scottish Borders FORCES CHAMPIONS is 0845 6043719. Contact numbers Jobcentre Plus has one of Britain’s for specific enquiries such as new largest databases of job vacancies, and existing benefit claims, getting which is updated constantly. a National Insurance number, Launched in 2010, regional Armed Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Forces Champions offer a link Allowance, Income Support, between Jobcentre Plus and the Incapacity Benefit, Maternity Armed Forces community. The Allowance and more can be found at: Champions are the main point of www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus contact for the Armed Forces to tackle issues or problems relating To find JobCentre Plus offices to employment and work-related elsewhere visit benefits, such as Jobseeker’s www.gov.uk/jobsearch Allowance. SKILLS DEVELOPMENT In the Scottish Borders, Jobcentre SCOTLAND Plus can be found at: Skills Development Scotland provides you with all the advice • New Reiver House, High and guidance necessary to get the Street, Galashiels TD1 1TD right job or develop your career. 08450 604 3719 Whether you’re at the stage of • 5-9 North Bridge Street, choosing subjects at school, Hawick TD9 9RH selecting training, furthering your 0800 169 0190 education, deciding upon a career or • Upper HoundLaw, Eyemouth managing your career, you will be TD14 5BS helped to uncover new opportunities 0800 169 0190 to fulfil your potential. For further information visit All open 9:00 - 5:00pm www.skillsdevelopmentscotland. co.uk Helpline: 0800 917 8000

Skills Development Scotland has do without taking advice. At offices in Galashiels and Hawick Business Gateway, you can access and operates drop-in centres a range of professional resources, in Peebles, Kelso, Duns and support and tools, all of which are Eyemouth. You must call 01896 designed to help you learn new 754884 to book an appointment for skills, create opportunities and all the centres. develop your idea or business.

Waukrigg Mill, Duke St, Galashiels Within the Scottish Borders, Tel: 01896 754884 or Business Gateway have a range 0800 917 8000 of free workshops which can help Monday - Friday 9:00 – 5:00 you develop your business concept, ensuring you know the areas Hawick Carers Centre to be researched, and you have 12 Howegate, Hawick addressed any legal obligations Tel: 01450 372724 or including tax and business 0800 917 8000 insurance. Tuesday and Thursday 09:30 – 12:30 With regard to further support available, Business Gateway will Recruitment opportunities within highlight any potential financial local authorities can be found by and advisery support channels visiting available including Princes Trust www.myjobscotland.gov.uk Youth Business Scotland, Skills Development Scotland, and the SELF-EMPLOYMENT government’s New Enterprise Allowance Scheme to ensure that Business Gateway you and your business receive If you dream of being your own the most appropriate support boss and starting your own available. business, but not quite sure how to make it happen, Business Gateway To find out how Business Gateway can help make it happen with you. Scottish Borders can help your The team of enthusiastic Business business visit www.bgateway. Advisers will work with you, com/scottishborders, or call our providing free impartial advice, local office on 01835 818 390. information and support to help you through the start-up process. Tower Mill Kirkstile, Hawick Starting your business could be the TD9 OAE best career move you ever make, Monday - Friday 9:00 – 5:00 but it’s not something you should

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 21 If you want to start your own If you are self-employed you will business you need to register have full free rights of movement with HM Revenue & Customs and can apply for an EU Residence (Inland Revenue), either as soon Permit which can be downloaded as you start marketing your from www.ukba.homeoffice. gov.uk business, or as soon as you start An information message by the UK trading. Call its helpline on 0845 Border Agency is available by calling 915 4515 for advice on the steps 0870 241 0645. you need to take, or visit www.hmrc.gov.uk FINANCIAL SERVICES Capital Credit Union is a not for profit If you are self-employed, the member owned financial cooperative income tax you will need to providing savings plans, lending pay will be based on your own facilities and insurance services assessment of your income, for anyone living or working within which will then be checked by the Edinburgh, Lothian and the Scottish Inland Revenue. You also have Borders. You can call the Capital to pay National Insurance under Credit Union on 0131 225 9901. a different classification from employed people. Information Capital Credit Union on setting up business for 62 Hamilton Place yourself can be found on the HM Edinburgh Revenues and Benefits website EH3 5AZ page www.gov.uk/working-for- Email: enquiries@ yourself capitalcreditunion.com It is important that you get www.capitalcreditunion.com professional advice as early as possible so that your business is legal and you are aware of your responsibilities.

Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce also provides services and information to help local businesses email: enquiries@ borderschamber.org.uk or visit www.borderschamber.com 27 North Bridge Street Hawick, TD9 9BD

SECTION C HEALTHCARE

MEDICAL Apart from emergencies, GP The route into all medical care Practices do not operate a in the NHS is via a General ‘walk-in’ service and may have Practitioner (GP.) All veterans and different consulting hours, so families should register with a you should call or go to the local GP Practice once you arrive reception to register and get in the area. If you are on leave or information on making an a temporary resident, treatment appointment. When registering, can be sought as a ‘temporary inform the receptionist that you resident’. Please note: A GP is are a member or ex-member of like your Resident Medical officer the Armed Forces or a Forces (RMO) – if you do not register with dependant. It is in your interests one you will not gain access to the to declare it. healthcare you need.

GPs operate from Health Centres and GP Surgeries in most of the Border towns and villages. Each GP Practice covers a defined area so that patient needs can be met appropriately. The Practice you approach will advise you if you fall within their area or will need to register with a neighbouring Practice.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 23 HEALTH CENTRES AND SURGERIES

The GP Practices within NHS Borders are:

Merse Medical Practice South Crofts, Chirnside 01890 818253 Coldstream Medical Practice Kelso Road, Coldstream 01890 882711 Merse Medical Practice The Knoll, Station Road, Duns 01361 885030 Duns Medical Group The Knoll, Station Road, Duns 01361 885040 Earlston Medical Practice Kidgate, Earlston 01896 848333 Eyemouth Medical Practice Houndlaw Park, Eyemouth 01890 750599 Waverly Medical Practice Currie Road, Galashiels 01896 661350 Braeside Medical Practice Currie Road, Galashiels 01896 661360 The Ellwyn Practice Currie Road, Galashiels 01896 661355 Glenfield Medical Practice Currie Road, Galashiels 01896 661363 Roxburgh Street Surgery Roxburgh Street, Galashiels 01896 752557 Greenlaw Surgery Duns Road, Greenlaw 01361 810216 Teviot Medical Practice Teviot Road, Hawick 01450 370999 The O’Connell Street Medical Practice O’Connell Street, Hawick 0300 100 1800 St Ronan’s Health Practice Buchan Place, Innerleithen 01896 830203 Jedburgh Medical Practice Queen Street, Jedburgh 01835 863361 Kelso Medical Group Practice Inch Road, Kelso 086310 3900 Stow & Lauder Health Crofts Road, Lauder 01578 718670 Melrose Health Centre St Dunstan’s Park, Melrose 01896 822161 Newcastleton Medical Practice Moss Road, Newcastleton 013873 75100 The Neidpath Practice Neidpath Road, Peebles 01721 720380 The Tweed Practice Neidpath Road, Peebles 01721 720601 Eildon Surgery Auction Mart, Newtown St 01835 822777 Boswells Selkirk Medical Practice Viewfield Lane, Selkirk 01750 21674 Stow & Lauder Health Station Road, Stow 01896 661440 West Linton Medical Practice Deanfoot Road, West Linton 01968 660808

For information about all medical services in the Borders and how to register with a GP visit www.nhsborders.scot.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/

SPECIFIC SUPPORT AVAILABLE FOR VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES

PRIORITY HEALTH NHS WAITING LIST TREATMENT Service personnel and their families All Veterans receive priority access who move within Scotland or across to NHS primary (GP and community the UK will have their previous services), secondary (consultant waiting time taken into account specialist services) and tertiary with the expectation that treatment (specialist centres outside Scottish will be within national waiting time Borders) care for any conditions standards. likely to be related to their service. This includes those not in receipt of THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE a war pension and those who have MEDICAL ASSESSMENT served as reservists, and is subject PROGRAMME (MAP) to individual clinical needs. All GPs The Ministry of Defence Veterans in the Scottish Borders are aware and Reserves Mental Health of their obligation to provide priority Programme (MAP) provides general treatment to Veterans. medical examinations for those MENTAL HEALTH deployed on any operation since 1982. This includes: Arrangements for access to • The Falklands conflict specialist mental health services • Operation GRANBY (the 1990/91 for Veterans resident in Scotland Gulf conflict) have been extended and simplified. • Porton Down Volunteers (PDV- Please see information on Combat Government and Military Stress and Big White Wall (details Research Facility) on page 24). • Operation TELIC (the Iraq PROSTHETIC LIMB deployment) PROVISION • Operation HERRICK (the current operation in Afghanistan) The Prosthetic Limb project started at NHS Lothian Rehabilitation to The MAP also provides mental ensure that Veterans who lose health assessments for those limbs whilst on active service Veterans concerned that they have receive a similar standard of ‘state a service related mental health of the art’ prosthetics from NHS problem that is not fully understood Scotland to that provided by the within the NHS. MOD Defence Medical Services.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 25 Referrals to the MAP are made Hollybush House via your GP and where possible all Veterans Treatment Centre NHS and service medical records Hollybush, Ayr KA6 7EA are obtained and read before you Tel: 0800 138 1619 are seen. Costs for Veterans and if email: contactus@combatstress. required, their carers, are covered org.uk by the service, including overnight accommodation and travel. BIG WHITE WALL Big White Wall is a free web-based Helpline: 0800 0326258 support network which offers: email: [email protected] • A community of thousands www.gov.uk/government/ providing peer support. groups/defense-medical- • Talk therapy in community, services groups and one-to-one. ORGANISATIONS • Creative self expression through PROVIDING HELP AND art and writing therapies. • Guided groups informed by ADVICE SPECIFICALLY TO recognised therapies such VETERANS as cognitive behaviour and (further details are also provided interpersonal therapies. in the Welfare Advice and Support • Relationship building using section on page 41) online social networking practices. COMBAT STRESS • Extensive Useful Stuff for Combat Stress looks after self-managing psychological Veterans with a wide range of distress. mental health issues related • Member safety through directly to their service, including anonymity and 24/7 facilitation those suffering from Post- from trained staff. Traumatic Stress Disorder • Accessible at any time of day or (PTSD). The treatment centre at night. Hollybush near Ayr offers short- For more information visit stay treatment, administered by www.bigwhitewall.com a highly trained and qualified multi-disciplinary team who have Tel: 0203 405 6196 specialised knowledge of military email: [email protected] related PTSD. There are also two community outreach teams who visit Veterans in their own homes. www.combatstress.org.uk

RIVERS CENTRE FOR some equipment to help with TRAUMATIC STRESS daily living and in certain cases, The Centre offers assessment financial assistance. and treatment of psychological reactions to trauma including Social Work PTSD, major depression and Borders General Hospital other anxiety disorders. They Melrose TD6 9BS offer help to people who have Tel: 01896 826272 experienced traumatic events. Fax: 01896 826270 SMS Text Messaging: All NHS referrals will be made 07786 856 597 through a General Practitioner or email: sensoryservices@ Psychiatrist. scotborders.gov.uk Self-referrals are not accepted. VETERANS F1RST POINT The Rivers Centre (V1P) 1st Floor, Fountainbridge Veterans First Point is committed Library Building to learning from you in order 137 Dundee Street to improve the services they Edinburgh provide. Help inform the future EH11 1BG work for Veterans and their Tel: 0131 451 7400 families in Scotland. They offer email: Rivers.centre@ help and assistance to Veterans, nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk in confidence, no matter what your needs may be. For more SENSORY SERVICES TEAM information visit The Sensory Services Team www.veteransfirstpoint.org.uk works closely with people who have either low vision or Veterans First Point Lothian who are deaf (sign language Floor K, users),deafened or hard or Argyle House, hearing. Service users will 3 Lady Lawson Street, usually be offered a home visit Edinburgh, when the kind of help required EH3 9DR. and the support needed will be Tel: 0131 221 7090 discussed. The Team also works email: V1P.Scotland@nhslothian. closely with the Scottish War scot.nhs.uk Blinded (further info on page 45) www.veteransfirstpoint.org.uk/ who are able to provide support, contact

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 27 NHS 24 HELPLINE ACCIDENT AND If your local surgery is closed, EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT you should call the NHS 24 AT THE BORDERS GENERAL helpline on 111. NHS 24 is available for Text Phone users HOSPITAL, MELROSE The Accident and Emergency with hearing and speech Department treats urgent medical difficulties by calling conditions and accidental injuries 18001 111. 24 hours per day, seven days a NHS 24 staff will assess your week. condition and recommend a course of action: DENTAL NHS Borders Dental • you may be asked to see a GP Service or nurse based at the Borders Anyone declaring themselves as General Hospital, Melrose. returning service personnel or • you may be asked to attend dependants will be given priority one of the local minor injuries on the NHS Borders Dental Service units at: waiting list. If you want to register • Kelso Hospital with a dentist, you should complete • Hawick Community a dental needs assessment form. Hospital These forms are available by • Peebles Hay Lodge contacting the Dental Enquiry Hospital Line on 0845 300 0930 or from the • Duns Knoll Hospital Coldstream and Hawick Dental • for a minor illness, you may Centres, Hawick Community be advised to treat yourself, Hospital, Kelso Health Centre, attend another available Galashiels Health Centre or doctor in the area or to visit Eyemouth High School Dental your local pharmacy for Department. further advice. • if the problem is more Completed forms should be serious, NHS 24 will arrange returned to the address on the for a nurse or doctor to visit bottom of the form or handed in to you at home or will call an a dental department. ambulance for you if you need one. www.nhsbordersdentists.scot. nhs.uk Monday - Friday 8:00 – 18:00

out of hours NHS 24 on 111

Priority is also given to: implantable contraception, • patients with certain medical emergency contraception and conditions. pregnancy testing. • children. • patients with special needs. For all enquiries or to make an appointment call 01896 663700 BORDERS SEXUAL HEALTH or visit Genito Urinary (GU) www.borderssexualhealth.org. Medicine and Family uk Planning MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES This service is based at: The Health Centre Borderline Currie Road, Galashiels TD1 2UA 46 Bank Street, Galashiels Tel: 01896 663700 TD1 1EL Monday - Friday 9:00 – 13:00 Freephone Helpline 0800 027 www.nhsborders.scot.nhs. 4466 uk/patients-and-visitors/our- Monday-Sunday services/general-services/ 19:00 – 22:00 borders-sexual-health/our- Borderline offers out-of-hours clinics/galashiels/ emotional and listening support. All clinics, services and treatments are FREE. New Horizons Borders Confidentiality is guaranteed. 6B Island Street, Galashiels TD1 1NU Services Tel: 01896 755510 • Advice on sexual health for Call in or telephone for men and women. information and support on • Testing for sexually mental health issues. transmitted infections (STIs),Chlamydia, Hepatitis B, enquiries@newhorizonsborders. Hepatitis C & HIV. org • Advice on contraception, Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), the menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). • Most clinics offer Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD),

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 29 Breathing Space GENERAL HEALTH ADVICE Tel: 0800 83 85 87 AND INFORMATION email: admin@ Borders Independent Monday-Thursday 18:00 - 2:00 Friday 6pm - Monday 6am Advocacy Service This is a national helpline offering Low Buckholmside, Galashiels a free and confidential service TD1 1RT for people who are feeling sad or Tel: 01896 752200 depressed and operates at a time email: info@bordersadvocacy. when many people feel low and org.uk need to talk to someone. Promoting the welfare for www.breathingspace.scot people with physical disabilities and sensory disabilities in the Penumbra Scottish Borders. www.bordersadvocacy.org.uk 47b Ladhope Vale, Galashiels TD1 1BW Youth Project Borders Voluntary Care Tel: 01896 751177 Voice Supported Living Service 3rd floor Tel: 01896 758217 Triest House email: bordersyp@penumbra. Bridge Street org.uk offers a number of mental Galashiels TD1 1SW health services including a youth Tel: 01896 757290 project, homelessness service and email: admin@ tenancy support. borderscarevoice.org.uk Supports the Mental Health and Penumbra Supported Well Being Forum. www.borderscarevoice.org.uk/ Living Services 73A High Street HEALTH RIGHTS Hawick TD9 9EH Tel: 01450 377659 INFORMATION SCOTLAND www.penumbra.org.uk (HRIS) HRIS provides accurate and up to date information about your health rights. Tel: 0141 226 5261 or log on to www.hris.org.uk

NHS Inform Other Usefull Numbers Provides quality assured health information for the public in Action on hearing loss Scotland. Tel: 0800 224488, or log Tel: 0800 224488 on to www.nhsinform.scot email:scotland@hearingloss. Monday-Friday 8:00 - 22:00 org.uk Saturday-Sunday 9:00 - 17:00 Deafblind Scotland webchat & interpretation also Tel: 0141 777611 available email:info@deafblindscotland. org.uk If you have any comments or questions or would like more RNIB information about how NHS Tel: 0131 6523140 inform is developing, please email: [email protected]. Scottish Borders nhs.uk Interpreter Agency Borders Health in Hand BGH The Borders Health In Hand Melrose website provides health TD6 9BS information and support, a Tel: 01896 822998 directory of services and contacts email: [email protected] and health improvement advice for people living with a long term condition in the Scottish Borders. Visitors to the website will be able to find out about services provided for people with diabetes, asthma, heart disease and other health conditions. email: [email protected]. uk

The website can be viewed in Scottish Borders Council libraries and library staff can help you to search online for good quality health information. Visit www.knowledge.scot.nhs.uk

SECTION D EDUCATION, SKILLS AND TRAINING

SCHOOL EDUCATION If you live more than two miles All children in Scotland attend from a primary school or three school from the age of four or miles from a secondary school, five until they are ages 16, 17 or transport to and from school is 18. If they attend a state school, usually free of charge. their education is free during that Support can be provided if your time. If your children are of school child needs help with learning age, you must register them in a English or with behavioural, school in the ’catchment area’ you emotional or physical needs. live in. Scottish Borders Council’s Education service will tell you your EARLY LEARNING AND nearest catchment school. CHILDCARE Early Learning and Childcare is For further advice visit the new name for what was pre- www.scotborders.gov.uk/ school education. Early Learning directory/20/schools and Childcare is available in the or call 0300 100 1800. Scottish Borders for all 3 and 4 All schools are open to both boys year olds and for 2 year olds who and girls. meet the eligibility criteria.

The school year begins in August. 2-4 year olds are entitled between Children in the Scottish Borders 600 & 1140 hours of free Early can attend one of 64 primary Learning and Childcare in a setting schools from ages four or five to 12 of their parent’s choice. and one of nine secondary schools from age 12 to 16, 17 or 18. There These hours can be taken as a are also four primary schools number of sessions in morning linked to the Roman Catholic and afternoon slots in schools. In Church – in Selkirk, Galashiels and Private and Voluntary providers Peebles.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 33 there is more flexibility where parents can often choose times that suit their needs.

Early Learning and Childcare is delivered through a number of different places. • School provision as part of the local primary school. • Play groups – usually run by parents through a committee. • Private Nursery – run by a private or voluntary agency.

For further information and a full list of providers is available on the Family Information Service www.scottishfamilies.gov.uk

SPECIFIC SUPPORT AVAILABLE FOR VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES

EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP FURTHER EDUCATION SCHEME FOR BEREAVED The scheme will provide a SERVICE CHILDREN scholarship to enable a bereaved The Education Scholarship child to stay in further education Scheme was launched on 8 (5th year in Scotland/college/ April 2011 and provides further training course etc). This will education and university normally be paid for 2 years scholarships within the UK for but may be extended to 3 years the children of Servicemen and if required by the syllabus. It women who died whilst serving in will not be extended in order the HM Armed Forces since 1990. to repeat part of a syllabus or retake exams.

UNIVERSITY three separate financial years (which The scheme will provide a need not be consecutive and may be contribution towards the cost of a first a combination of lower tier and upper undergraduate degree for both tuition tier funds) either while in service or and maintenance fees. Since tuition for up to ten years after leaving. fees vary across the UK according to place of domicile and place of study, ELC support may be claimed for this scholarship is adjusted to provide part-time or full-time study, whether a similar level of support to all by individual or group tuition or applicants across the UK. It will not distance learning. Learners must be extended in order to repeat part of have enrolled to undertake a higher a syllabus or retake exams. level qualification. The course of study must be a nationally recognised For further information, please visit qualification at Level 6 or above on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications ENHANCED LEARNING Framework (SCQF). CREDITS (ELC) Details of the ELC scheme can The MOD’s Enhanced Learning be found in the Course 4 Forces Credits Scheme is an initiative to magazine as well as visiting promote lifelong learning amongst www.enhancedlearningcredits.com/ members of the Armed Forces and email: [email protected] is available to ex-service personnel Tel: 0845 3005179 who have completed at least 4 years Monday - Friday 9:00 – 17:00 service on discharge, on or after 2010. The ELC scheme provides financial support in the form of a VETERANS HELPING single up-front payment in each of a VETERANS maximum of three separate financial SOUTH EAST SCOTLAND years. Funding is available both in We are a local charity based in the service and 10 years after leaving the Borders helping veterans with PTSD Armed Forces. to overcome their fears in their daily lives by arranging activities such as ELC awards are available in two tiers: Archery, horse riding and many more • the lower tier level of up to £1000 exciting activities. per annum for those with four or more years eligible service. For more details contact us on 01890 • the upper tier level of up to £2000 883196 or 07419319215 per annum for those with eight or more years’ eligible service.

Providing you meet all the criteria, personnel can make ELC claims up to

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 35 FURTHER EDUCATION AND HERIOT-WATT UNIVERSITY TRAINING Heriot-Watt University offers Scottish Borders campus in undergraduate and post- Galashiels is home to Borders graduate courses in the world College and Heriot-Watt renowned School of Textiles & University’s world class School Design. of Textiles and Design. In a pioneering co-location project, The campus recently underwent the campus provides a centre a multi-million pound for educational excellence from refurbishment to create an both institutions, providing inspiring learning environment the perfect environment for and centre for excellence which students and staff within one includes integrated learning vibrant educational hub, whilst facilities, computer suites, still retaining their own distinct specialised workshops, spacious identities. studios, a library and a gallery. Call 08700 505152 or visit www.hw.ac.uk/uk/scottish- BORDERS COLLEGE borders.htm Borders College operates from five locations in the Borders, LEARNING IN THE the main one is the Scottish Borders Campus in Galashiels COMMUNITY which it shares with Heriot- There are many opportunities Watt University. It offers a wide to learn across a wide range of range of courses up to HND subjects and interests in your level, particularly in subjects local community. Courses, where there are local job or workshops and activities take opportunities to progress on to place in a variety of venues study at university. Courses are including community centres. run in Galashiels and throughout There is a community centre in the Borders both during the most towns: day and in the evening. For a Chirnside Community Centre prospectus and to find out about 26 Main Saint West End, Duns, English speaking courses call TD11 3UF 08700 505152 or visit Tel: 01890 818885 www.borderscollege.ac.uk. Coldstream Community Centre email:enquiries@ HighStreet, Coldstream, borderscollege.ac.uk TD12 4AP Tel: 01890 883332

Southfield Community Centre For more details of what is on Station Road, Duns, TD11 3EL offer locally, visit the Community Tel: 01361 882184 Grid for Learning at Eyemouth Community Centre www. onlineborders.org.uk or Albert Road, Eyemouth, contact Community Learning and TD14 5DE Development on 01896 755110. Tel: 01890 750458 Focus Community Centre ADULT LITERACY Livingstone Place, Galashiels, If you want to work on your TD1 1DQ reading, writing and number skills Tel: 01896 753873 and build confidence to use your Langlee Complex skills as part of your everyday life, Marigold Drive, Galashiels, you can contact the Learning For TD1 2LP ALL Partnership in the Scottish Tel: 01896 753873 Borders. Burnfoot Community School Kenilworth Avenue, Hawick, A tutor will help you to: TD9 8EQ • understand how you learn best. Tel: 01450 373043 • see the difference that literacy St Ronan’s Community Centre and numeracy can make to St Ronan’s School, Pirn Road, your life. Innerleithen, EH44 6PB • plan your learning goals. Tel: 01896 830349 • take small steps to achieve Abbey Row Community Centre your learning. The Knowes, Kelso, TD5 7BJ • review your learning and Tel: 01573 223595 understand the difference it Newtown St Boswells has made. Community Wing, Old Primary School Contact your local worker: Tel: 01835 823738 Eyemouth Peebles Community Centre Tel: 01890 750458 Walkershaugh, Peebles, Duns and Coldstream EH45 8AU Tel: 01361 882623 Tel: 01721 720975 Galashiels Philiphaugh Community School Tel: 01896 755110 2 Linglie Road, Selkirk, TD7 5LT Kelso Tel: 01750 721774 Tel: 01573 228968 Tweedbank Community Centre Hawick Tweedbank, Galashiels, TD1 3RT Tel: 01450 364777 Tel: 01896 756167 Burnfoot Tel: 01450 375147

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 37 Peebles LEARNING ENGLISH Tel: 01721 720975 How to book a place: Innerleithen/Walkerburn • Telephone Borders College Tel: 01721 720975 on 08700 50 51 52 or email: Selkirk [email protected] for Tel: 01750 720684 a booking form • Complete booking form and LEARNING DISABILITY return to ESOL, Borders SERVICES College, Scottish Borders The Scottish Borders Learning Campus, Nether Road, Disability Service is a Borders Galashiels wide, joint Scottish Borders TD1 3HE Council and NHS Borders • You can get help to complete service. It provides a range the booking form at your local of services for adults with library or community centre learning disabilities including assessment, care management, What happens next? treatment, specialist advice, Classes are run in several towns consultation and training and in the Borders throughout the support as well as a local area year and are free for beginners. co-ordination service. The service You can study at a range of levels, is responsible for commissioning from beginners through to SQA and monitoring support services certificate classes. Once you have from other organisations. registered, you will be invited to an assessment session where Operating hours are Monday to you will work with trained tutors Friday 9:00 – 17:00 and closed to decide what level of class is at weekends and public holidays best for you. You will receive a although a crisis response letter when your chosen class services can be provided if is due to start. You may have to assessed and planned in wait for an assessment session advance. or for a suitable class to start. For more information please You will receive a letter with more telephone 01896 840200 or information if there is going to be email lds.admintasks@borders. a long delay. Please tell Borders scot.nhs.uk College if you change your SBLDS address. Church Street Earlston TD4 6HR

Libraries: by using an Individual Learning You can learn English on the Account (ILA). To find out what’s computers in your local library available locally and for more using the English In Action information contact language course. As you will www.myworldofwork.co.uk or need to book a computer space your local library. to learn, please speak to your Tel: 0800 917 8000 local library staff. There are Monday - Friday 9:00 – 17:00 Polish, Russian and Portuguese language books available to learndirect scotland borrow by library members, as This is a national organisation that well as information about local can provide free advice on training groups and events. and education. There may be a charge for the courses that are Library facilities are free to use, available from training providers. however you will need to register Telephone the helpline on 0808 101 to use the computers and borrow 901 or visit items, please consult library www.learndirect.com staff.

For more information telephone INTERNET ACCESS/ your local library or Library PUBLIC LIBRARIES Headquarters on 01750 726400 Free internet access and or visit www.scotborders.gov.uk/ computing facilities are available at libraries all Scottish Borders Libraries/ Free Wifi is available at all libraries. Learning English at Work: Please note all computers users Some employers offer English are required to adhere to the classes at work. Ask your Acceptable Use Policy. Parent/ employer for more details. guardians must sign a consent form before under 16s are allowed Conversational English: access. Classes may be available in some areas. Look for local publicity or To help you use the computer ask at your local library. facilities, IT classes are available in each library, please ask staff for Private lessons: details visit the libraries website at Are available from a range of www.scotborders.gov.uk/libraries providers. You may be able to or call Library Headquarters on get help with the cost of these 07150 726400.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 39 Software applications and ICT Innerleithen Library Contact equipment are provided in every Centre library allowing users to create Buccleuch Street EH44 6LA their own documents, graphics Tel: 01896 830789 and web pages and to access the Jedburgh Library Contact Centre internet. Many websites have a 15 Castlegate TD8 6AS built-in translation facility – visit Tel: 01835 863592 www.translate.google.co.uk/ Kelso Library Contact Centre The Babel Fish facility can also Bowmont Street TD5 7JH translate words and phrases to Tel: 01573 223171 and from a various number of Melrose Library languages including English, Market Square TD6 9PN Spanish, French, German, Tel: 01896 664171 Portuguese, Italian and Russian. Peebles Library Library staff will help users to High Street, Chambers Institute access the ICT facilities to find EH45 8AG information, but cannot currently Tel: 01721 726333 provide training. Selkirk Library Ettrick Terrace TD7 4LE Coldstream Library Tel: 01750 726410 Contact Centre Gateway Centre TD12 4AE wwwliveborders.org.uk/ Tel: 01890 883314 libraries for opening hours check Duns Library Contact Centre website or call library. 49 Newtown Street TD11 3AU Tel: 01361 882662 As Library and Library Contact Earlston Library Centres have different opening Earlston High School, East End hours across the region, please TD4 6JP check these before visiting. Tel: 01896 664172 Library facilities are free and Eyemouth Library open to everyone but you need Manse Road TD14 5JE to register to use the computer Tel: 01890 752767 facilities and to borrow books Galashiels Library and other items. You may join Lawyer’s Brae TD1 3JQ the library as an Online Only Tel: 01896 664162 member or as a visitor member Hawick Library for up to three months. A visitor’s North Bridge Street TD9 9QT membership can be renewed if Tel: 01450 364640 your stay is longer than three months.

Membership is free if you • Scottish Borders Council bring proof of your identity and information. residence, such as a council tax, • Community information gas, electricity or telephone bill. • Tourist information. (These are not required for Online • Reference and enquiry Only members) Once you are a services. member or a visitor member, you will be able to use the library For details of copy, print and fax facilities immediately. Online fees and other library charges , Only Members can upgrade visit the libraries website at their membership if they want to www.liveborders.org.uk/ borrow books or DVDs. libraries or ask at your local library. All libraries stock books, DVDs and Audio Books which Mobile libraries provide library can be borrowed once you facilities to the rural communities have registered. We also on a three week rotation. For have eAudiobooks, eBooks further details please contact and eMagazines available for Library Headquarters on 01750 download and provide access 726400 or visit www.scotborders. to a variety of online reference gov.uk/mobilelibrary databases. Hire charges apply for the loan of CDs and DvDs. Some LIBRARY APP libraries have small collections You can now resolve and renew of foreign language books that items, check library opening can be requested and supplied times and more via easy to use to any library or mobile library at app. Simply search the Iguana a small charge. Other services Library app on your device and provided by libraries include: enter your pin.

• photocopying. • fax service. • concessionary fax and photocopying charges for jobseekers. • free newspapers (to be read on site).

SECTION E WELFARE ADVICE AND SUPPORT SPECIFIC SUPPORT AVAILABLE FOR VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES

The national organisations listed in email: [email protected] this section provide advice, support www.blesma.org and guidance to Veterans and their Monday - Friday 9:00 – 17:00 families. The Association aims to promote the THE ARMY BENEVOLENT welfare of all those who have lost a FUND (ABF) THE SOLDIERS’ limb or limbs, or one or both eyes, or CHARITY the use of limbs as a result of their The Castle, Edinburgh EH1 2YT service in any branch of the Armed www.soldierscharity.org Forces or auxiliary forces. It also aims to help dependants. email: Scotland@soldierscharity. org/regions/scotland Tel: 0131 310 5132 CITIZENS ADVICE This is the Army’s national charity The Armed Services Advice Project and is committed to the welfare (ASAP) provided by the Scottish of Army and ex-Army personnel Citizens Advice Service has been and their dependants. Also has a created to be the focal point for facebook page the Armed Forces Community in Scotland for access to advice, BRITISH LIMBLESS EX- information and support. SERVICE MEN’S ASSOCIATION (BLESMA) Please call0808 800 9060 and talk to a trained adviser. Contact details for Blesma, The Limbless Veterans offices throughout the Borders can 185-187 High Road be found on page 52. Chadwell Health www.citizensadvice.org.uk/scotland Romford. Essex RM6 6NA www.cas.org.uk Tel: 02085901124

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 43 CRUSE BEREAVEMENT CARE The Society protects the pension SCOTLAND interests of ex-Service personnel of National Phoneline: all ranks and their dependants. 0845 600 2227 www.crusescotland.org.uk LOTHIAN VETERAN CENTRE Monday - Wednesday 10:00 – 20:00 11 Eskdail Court, Dalkieth, Thursday 10:00 – 21:00 Midlothian Friday 10:00 – 16:00 email: contact@ Cruse Bereavement Care Scotland lothianveteranscentre.org.uk exists to promote the well-being Tel: 0131 660 5537 of bereaved people in Scotland, provision of support and advice for whatever their age. They seek former members of our UK armed to help anyone experiencing forces, reservists and their family bereavement to understand their members who experience any grief and cope with their loss. sort of disadvantage post service. The South East Scotland Region Primarily designed as a drop in is comprised of teams based in: service. Facebook page and Twitter Edinburgh, East Lothian and the available Drop in Borders, covering Galashiels, Monday - Wednesday 10:00 – 16:00 Melrose, Hawick, Kelso and the surrounding area. OFFICERS ASSOCIATION SCOTLAND (OA SCOTLAND) ERSKINE New Haig House Erskine, Bishopton PA7 5PU 66 Logie Green Road, Edinburgh www.erskine.org.uk EH7 4HRQ email: [email protected] www.oascotland.org.uk Tel: 0414 812 1100 email: [email protected] Erskine offers ex-Service men and Tel: 0131 550 1575/1581 women all over Scotland nursing, There are two areas of activity dementia and respite care and undertaken by OA Scotland. support they need to overcome Firstly, it provides grants to relieve physical and emotional scars, often financial distress to those who have long after they have left active held a commission in any branch duty. Housing and employment of the Armed Forces, be it Regular opportunities are also available. or Reserve. Financial assistance is FORCES PENSION SOCIETY also available to the dependants of 68 South Lambeth Road, London those who have served. Secondly, SW8 1RL the Association provides support www.forcespensionsociety.org into employment for those who email: [email protected] have held a commission. Tel: 020 7820 9988

POPPYSCOTLAND ROYAL AIR FORCE New Haig House BENEVOLENT FUND 66 Logie Green Road, Edinburgh EH7 4HQ (RAFBF) www.poppyscotand.org.uk 20 Queen Street, Edinburgh email: enquiries@ EH2 1JX poppyscotLand.org.uk www.rafbf.org.uk Tel: 0131 557 2782 Tel: 0131 225 6421 Poppyscotland provides practical The RAFBF exists to help serving help to ex-Servicemen, women, and ex-serving members of the and their families across RAF, their children and their Scotland through direct financial dependants. assistance to those in urgent need. They also help to fund ROYAL AIR FORCES specialist services including ASSOCIATION (RAFA) advice, long term care, housing 20 Queen Street, Edinburgh and the employment of disabled EH2 1JX veterans. Poppyscotland also www.rafa.org supports ex-Servicemen and Tel: 0131 225 6421 women through Small Business The Association gives help Loans and retraining grants, and and advice to ex-RAF and provides access to respite breaks. Commonwealth Air Forces personnel and their dependants. REGULAR FORCES EMPLOYMENT THE ROYAL BRITISH ASSOCIATION LEGION SCOTLAND IN 66 Logie Green Road, Edinburgh THE SCOTTISH BORDERS EH7 4HR (LEGION SCOTLAND) www.rfea.org.uk The Royal British Legion Scotland Tel: 0131 557 1747 or Facebook (Legion Scotland) helps ex- and Twitter Tel: 0121 262 3058 services men and women of email: [email protected] all ages across Scotland to Assists ex-regular Servicemen adapt to civilian life by providing and women find employment community, friendship and throughout their working life. practical advice, whether they left military service yesterday or 50 plus years ago. Legion Scotland provides specialist disablement pensions advice, wellbeing support, comradeship

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 45 events both nationally and locally ROYAL NAVAL BENEVOLENT and a range of other services TRUST (RNBT) dedicated to making a real Castaway House, 311 Twyford difference to the lives of ex- Avenue, Portsmouth PO2 8RN servicemen and women and their www.rnbt.org.uk families. Information on branches email: [email protected] and clubs close to your area is Tel: 02392 690112 available on the website. The RNBT exists to give help at times of need to the members Opening hours are of the RNBT family – those who Monday – Sunday 08:00 – 20:00 are serving or who have served (except public holdiays) as Royal Naval ratings or Royal Tel: 0808 802 8080 Marine other ranks and their email: [email protected]. wives, husbands, partners and uk dependants. www.legionscotland.org.uk Facebook and Twitter SOLDIERS, SAILORS, ROYAL NAVAL AIRMEN AND FAMILIES ASSOCIATION (RNA ASSOCATION (SSAFA) SSAFA Central Office EDINBURGH BRANCH) 4 St Dunstan’s Hill Room 209, Semaphore London, EC3R 8AD Tower, PP70, HM Naval Base, www.ssafa.org.uk Portsmouth PO1 3LT email: [email protected] www.royal-naval-association. Helpline: 0800 731 4880 co.uk email: paul@royalnavalassoc. com (General Secretary) BORDERS BRANCH Tel: 01316692294 Tel: 01361 883 335 The Association offers friendship email: [email protected] and personal support to its SSAFA Forces Help serves members. the Armed Forces and their families. Their services reflect the financial, practical and emotional issues people face today and they are freely available to virtually everybody with a Service connection.

SCOTTISH VETERANS’ THE ROYAL MARINES RESIDENCIES CHARITY 53 Canongate, Edinburgh www.theroyalmarinescharity.org.uk EH8 8BS Tel: 0139 234 6424 www.svronline.org email: enquiries@the email: [email protected] royalmarinescharity.org.uk Tel: 0131 556 0091 Exists to help the entire royal Scottish Veterans’ Residencies marines family. it offers a range of provides independent living within services to serving personnel and a supportive caring environment veterans from financial assistance for the ex-Service community in to advice on finding a school or their residences in Edinburgh, meaningful career Broughty Ferry and Glasgow. MOD- VETERANS UK/ SCOTTISH WAR BLINDED VETERANS WELFARE SERVICE Outreach Service www.gov.uk/veterans-uk 50 Gillespie Crescent email: [email protected] Edinburgh, EH10 4JB Tel: 0808 1914 2 18 (national) Tel: 0131 229 1456 Veterans Welfare Service The Linburn Centre (Scotland): 0141 224 2709, email: Louis Braille Avenue [email protected] Wilkieston, EH27 8EJ Veterans UK and the Veterans Tel: 0800 035 6409 Welfare Service (VWS) are part of www.scottishwarblinded.org.uk the Ministry of Defence and provide email: enquiries@ personnel, pensions, welfare and scottishwarblinded.org support services to members of the Facebook and Twitter Armed Forces Scottish War Blinded offers and Veterans. VWS has a network assistance to any person who of welfare offices across the UK has been a member of the and Ireland. Welfare Managers are Armed Forces and has a visual available to provide one impairment or who has acquired to one assistance, in the home if a visual impairment in later life. needed, offering support on liaising Sheltered workshops and housing with local authorities, housing, is provided at Linburn and an completion of forms After Care Department attends to and claiming benefits. The Veterans the welfare and pension needs of UK helpline (above) provides a Scottish blinded ex-servicemen telephone enquiry service on and women and their dependants. government compensation schemes The service also provides an outreach worker in the Borders.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 47 for those injured or bereaved Veterans’ organisations in Scotland by service in the Armed Forces alone, we understand that it can and how to access support be frustrating to find just the right from VWS and other charity person to help with a problem. partners. An out of hours crisis And we know that whether you service is provided in partnership have been “in” for 3 years or 30 with Combat Stress and The years, or “out” for 6 weeks or 6 Samaritans. years, problems will arise that could use some help. BLIND VETERANS UK 12-14 Harcourt Street, London So we have set up this website W1H 4HD which we believe will put in one www.blindveterans.org.uk/ place most of the resources you Tel: 0800 389 7979 might need; Facebook and Twitter http://www.veterans-assist.org/ We are Blind Veterans UK and [email protected] we believe that no one who has served our country should battle VETERANS FIRST POINT blindness alone. Veterans First Point (V1P) has been developed by veterans for veterans That’s why we’re here to help and is staffed by veterans. Funded with lifelong practical and by the Scottish Government and emotional support which we NHS Lothian, it aims to provide a provide to Armed Forces and one-stop shop for veterans and National Service Veterans their families living in Lothian. regardless of when they served Veterans First Point offer help or how they lost their sight. and assistance to veterans, in confidence, no matter what your We help Veterans recover their needs may be. Veterans First Point independence and discover a life is committed to learning from you beyond sight loss. in order to improve the services they provide. Help inform the VETERANS ASSIST future work for veterans and their SCOTLAND families in Scotland. We are Veterans. We recognise that for many Veterans and their families, aspects of life after leaving the Services can be challenging. With over 50

VETERANS FIRST POINT LOTHIAN Floor K, Argyle House, 3 Lady Lawson Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9DR Tel: 0131 220 9920 email: v1p.scotland@nhslothian. scot.nhs.uk www.veteransfirstpoint.org.uk

WINSTON’S WISH Helpline: 0808 802 0021 www.winstonswish.org.uk [email protected] Monday – Friday 09:00 – 17:00 online chat also available. Winston’s Wish is the leading childhood bereavement charity and the largest provider of services to bereaved children, young people and their families in the UK.

The Helpline is open from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm and calls are charged at the local rate.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 49 ORGANISATIONS Integrated Children’s PROVIDING HELP AND Services ADVICE If you have concerns in relation There are many organisations to children or are seeking help or locally and nationally that can advice please call your Locality give you help and advice on a office as detailed below: variety of issues. Monday –Thursday 08:45 – 17:00 Scottish Borders Council Friday 08:45 – 15:45 has a range of care and support services: Berwickshire 4-6 Newtown Street, Duns, SOCIAL WORK SERVICES TD11 3DT Tel: 01361 886115 Social Work The Social Work Services Cheviot provides a wide and important R o s e L a n e , K e l s o , T D 5 7 A P range of services for individuals, Tel: 01573 227421 families and communities. You can contact them on 0300 100 Eildon 1800 –Option 4 10-12 Galapark, Galashiels, TD1 1EU Mon – Wed 08:00 – 17:00 Tel: 01896 664158 Thursday 08:00 – 20:00 Friday 08:00 – 16:00 Teviot & Liddesdale Saturday 09:00 – 12:00 Town Hall, High Street, Hawick, Emergency Services out of hours TD9 9EF can be contacted on 01896 752111 Tel: 01450 364777 or by visiting www.scotborders. gov.uk and following the links. Tweeddale Rossetta Road, Peebles, EH45 8HG Tel: 01721 726310

WELFARE BENEFITS Duns Library Contact Centre SERVICE 49 Newtown Street, Duns The Welfare Benefits service TD11 3AU specialises in welfare benefits, Tel: 0300 100 1800 tax credits, educational and Monday 10:00 - 17:00 health benefits and can provide Tuesday 13:00 - 19:00 information, advice and Wednesday 10:00 - 13:00 advocacy. Thursday 10:00 - 17:00 Friday 10:00 - 17:00 Opening hours are:- Saturday 09:30 - 12:30 Mon – Thurs 08:45 – 17:00 Eyemouth Contact Centre Fri 08:45 – 15:45 Old High School Building, Tel: 01896 661394 Coldingham Road email: [email protected]. Eyemouth TD14 5AN gov.uk Tel: 0300 100 1800 www.scotborders.gov.uk/ Standard Opening Hours info/603/benefits_advice_and_ assessment/1147/welfare_ Galashiels Contact Centre benefits_service Paton Street, Galashiels TD1 3AS Tel: 0300 100 1800 Standard Opening Hours CONTACT CENTRES Contact centres in each town Hawick Contact Centre will provide advice on all Council High Street, Hawick TD9 9EF services that are not related Tel: 0300 100 1800 to Social Work, such as refuse Standard Opening Hours collection. These are located as Innerleithen Library follows: Contact Centre Buccleuch Street, Innerleithen Coldstream Library EH44 6LA Contact Centre Tel: 0300 100 1800 Gateway Centre, High Street, Monday 14:00 - 17:00 Coldstream TD12 4AE Tuesday 14:00 - 19:00 Tel: 0300 100 1800 Thursday 14:00 - 17:00 Monday 14:00 - 17:00 Friday 10:00 - 15:00 Tuesday 16:00 - 19:00 Thursday 10:00 - 12:00 Friday 12:00 - 16:00

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 51 Jedburgh Library Contact Centre Call centre opening hours are:- 15 Castlegate, Jedburgh TD8 6AS Monday 08:00 – 17:00 Tel: 0300 100 1800 Tuesday 08:00 – 17:00 Monday 10:00 - 13:00 14:00 - 17:00 Friday 08:00 – 17:00 Tuesday 14:00 - 19:00 Thursday 08:00 – 20:00 Thursday 10:00 - 13:00 14:00 - 17:00 Saturday 09:00 – 12:00 Friday 10:00 - 15:00 Saturday 09:30 - 12:30 CITIZENS ADVICE The Citizens Advice gives free, Kelso Library Contact Centre confidential, independent and Bowmont Street, Kelso TD5 7JH impartial advice on your rights. Tel: 0300 100 1800 These include benefits, housing, Monday 10:00 - 17:00 employment, debt, consumer Tuesday 13:00 - 19:00 affairs and legal issues. Offices Wednesday 10:00 - 14:00 can be found in most of the Thursday 10:00 - 17:00 Border towns, but note that not all Friday 10:00 - 16:00 the offices are open every day. You Saturday 09:30 - 12:30 can also visit the website www. Newtown St Boswells cas.org.uk Council Headquarters, Citizens Advice contact Bowden Road TD6 0SA Tel: 0300 100 1800 details in the Borders Standard Opening Hours Southfield Community Centre Station Road, Duns, TD11 3EL Peebles Contact Centre Tel: 01361 883340 High Street, Peebles EH45 8AG email: dunscab@roxburghcab. Tel: 0300 100 1800 casonline.org.uk Standard Opening Hours Tuesday 12:00 - 15:00 Selkirk Contact Centre Wednesday 10:00 - 13:00 High Street, Selkirk TD7 4JX Thursday 10:00 - 14:00 Tel: 0300 100 1800 Eyemouth Community Centre Monday 09:00 - 12:30 13:30 - 17:00 Albert Road, TD14 5DE Tuesday 09:00 - 12:30 13:30 - 17:00 Tel: 01890 750500 Wednesday 09:00 - 12:30 13:30 - 17:00 email: eyemouthcab@ Friday 09:00 - 13:00 roxburghcab.casonline.org.uk Monday 12:00 - 15:00 You can contact Customer Services Wednesday 10:00 – 13:00 on 0300 100 1800 for all Scottish Friday 09.30 - 12.30 Borders Council Services. *First Wednesday in each month Debt Clinic – appointments needed.

Central Borders Citizens Advice Berwick Voluntary Forum 111 High Street, Galashiels, 5 Tweed Street, Berwick-upon- TD1 1RZ Tweed, TD15 1NG Tel: 01896 753889 Tel: 03444 111 444 Mon – Wed 10:00 - 16:00 email: [email protected] www.citizenadvicenorthumberland. Thursday 10:00 - 18:00 org.uk Friday 10:00 - 13:00 *First Wednesday in each month SAMARITANS Debt Clinic – appointments needed. We’re someone to talk to when Roxburgh and Berwickshire things are getting to you. We give 1 Towerdykeside, Hawick, anyone struggling to cope the time TD9 9EA and space to talk. You don’t have to Tel: 01450 374266 be suicidal or you might feel that email: enquiries@roxburghcab. things have reached a point where casonline.org.uk you’re thinking of ending your Monday 10:00 – 16:00 life. We can help you explore your Tuesday 10:00 – 16:00 options, understand your problems Wednesday 10:00 – 16:00 better, or just be there to listen. Thursday 10:00 – 18:00 As volunteers we’re ordinary people Friday 10:00 – 16:00 carefully trained to put aside any Jedburgh Outreach Health Centre personal beliefs. We won’t give you Queen Street, Jedburgh, TD8 6EN a label, a diagnosis or think we know (Every 2nd Wed 13:30 - 15:00 best. We keep all our conversations private; whatever you tell us stays 20 Shedden Park Road, Kelso, TD5 between us. 7AL Tel: 01573 223516 We’re a charity and always here, Tuesday 10:00 – 13:00 across the UK, round the clock, Friday 10:00 – 16:00 every single day of the year. You *Last Tuesday in each month Debt can get in touch any time by phone, Clinic – appointments needed email or post. If you’d like to know more have a look at our website. Peebles and District Freephone: 116 123 Chambers Institution, High Street, 01750 20000 (Borders branch)* Peebles, EH54 8AJ email: [email protected] Tel: 01721 721722 web: www.samaritans.org email: manager peeblescab. @ write: Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK casonline.org.uk Chris, PO Box 90 90 Monday 10:00 – 16:00 Stirling FK8 2SA Tuesday – Friday 10:00 – 13:00

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 53 If you’d find it easier to talk to DOMESTIC ABUSE AND a volunteer face to face, we can SEXUAL VIOLENCE meet you at our local branch: Getting help for yourself, Borders Samaritans family or friend who may be 21 West Port experiencing harm or abuse: Selkirk TD7 4DG Facebook & Twitter In an emergency dial 999 or for 24 hour support, call the Times for a face to face meeting National Domestic Abuse are below. It’s best to phone helpline 0800 027 1234. In ahead if you can (01750 20000) the event that you want to to make sure a volunteer is speak to police but it is not an definitely available. emergency, call 101. Monday 17:00 - 19:00 Tuesday 17:00 - 19:00 If you, or someone you know is Wednesday 14:00 - 19:00 experiencing domestic abuse Thursday 08:00 - 13:00 or you would like to speak to & 17:00 - 19:00 a professional, listed below Friday 18:00 - 19:00 are the agencies based in the Scottish Borders who can help ONLINE BORDERS you by providing practical help and emotional support. www.onlineborders.org.uk is a community website with useful BORDER WOMEN’S AID information about the Borders. Border Women’s Aid Ltd is a It provides: voluntary sector organisation. We offer safe accommodation, • help for local voluntary advocacy, advice and support to organisations to develop an women and their children (if any) online presence to promote who wish to escape domestic their work. abuse. We offer emotional and • advice on careers guidance, practical support, information employment, skills and on legal rights, benefits and training. housing options amongst many • learning materials and others. The refuge, located at courses. an undisclosed address, is a • a database of services and modern, clean, well equipped organisations. house. Each family has their own bedroom although the rest of the house is shared. Border

Women’s Aid Ltd works in All referrals will be responded to partnership with Children 1st within a 24-48 hour period after in order to provide a Children’s the incident. You can phone DAAS Service that works with children directly for confidential advice and young people affected and information. Staff will ensure by domestic abuse. A follow that any contact with you will be on service is also provided to using a safe contact number. families who have lived in the refuge but have now moved on Call DAAS directly on 01835 to rebuild their lives in their own 825024 for confidential advice accommodation elsewhere. This and information, make a referral service, along with our outreach or ask for support. DAAS is open service allow Border Women’s 9:00 to 17:00 Monday to Thursday Aid Ltd to support the women, and 08:45 to 15.45 Friday children and young people both practically and emotionally until CHILDREN1ST BORDERS they feel safe and secure. - DOMESTIC ABUSE Opening hours SERVICES Monday - Friday 09.30 - 17:00 Children1st support victims of domestic abuse, whether still Unit 5B Liddesdale Road, living with domestic abuse or Hawick, TD9 0BN having experienced it in the past. Tel: 01450 218 409 The service supports adults www.borderwomensaid.co.uk (both men and women), including victims of abuse within a same DOMESTIC ABUSE sex relationship, as well as children and young people up to ADVOCACY SUPPORT the age of 18 years. If you have SERVICE (DAAS) suffered domestic abuse, time is The Domestic Abuse Advocacy taken to hear how you feel that Support (DAAS) Service is a you can best be supported, and dedicated service established support on a long term basis can to support victims of domestic be offered if you need it. abuse and in particular, high risk cases in the Scottish Call Children1st direct on Borders. 01750 22892 to talk to someone about getting support for The DAAS Service will take yourself or someone you know. referrals for both female and male victims of domestic abuse.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 55 SCOTTISH BORDERS RAPE ABUSED MEN IN SCOTLAND CRISIS CENTRE (AMIS) 1A Wilderhaugh, Galashiels AMIS is a national organisation TD1 1PW based in Scotland dedicated Call SBRCC on 01896 661070 for to supporting men who are support or information. experiencing, or who have Visit the website experienced, domestic abuse. www. scottishbordersrapecrisis. AMIS welcomes calls from men org.uk in need of support or advice, and Scottish Borders Rape Crisis from men and women seeking Centre provides emotional and help for male friends or relatives. practical support and information • visit the Abused Men in to women and girls aged 12 and Scotland (AMIS) website or over who have experienced rape or • call them on 0808 800 0024. sexual violence in their lives. This includes sexual assault, childhood Further information: please visit sexual abuse and other forms of http://www.scotborders.gov.uk/ sexual violence. The Centre is run info/1400/domestic_abuse by women for women. VICTIM SUPPORT RESPECT 72 High Street Freephone 0808 802 404 Galashiels TD1 1SQ Mon-Fri 09:00 – 17:00 Tel: 01896 751212 email: info:@respectphoneline. If you have been the victim of a org.uk. crime, or have been harassed www.respect.uk.net or bullied, you should report the Respect works with domestic incident to the police. If you need abuse perpetrators, male victims support, whether or not a crime and young people. has been commited, contact Victim The confidential helpline offers Support. advice, information and support to stop you being violent and abusive DRUG & ALCOHOL SUPPORT to your partner. SERVICES There are three direct drug and MENS ADVICE LINE alcohol services in the Scottish Advice and support for men Borders. If you are concerned experiencing domestic abuse - about your own or someone else’s 0808 801 0327 drug or alcohol use you can speak to your doctor, or contact one of the services direct:

Addaction Borders • Children and young people Tel: 0800 028 6664 (Freephone) affected bt parental/carer Support to anyone 16yrs and alcohol and / or drug use (any over concerned about their own age) drug or alcohol use or someone • Parents/carers whose current else’s. or past alcohol and / or drug • One to one support to help use is impacting on their you cut down or stop. children / unborn baby. • Employment support. • Injecting Equipment/Blood Referals can be made by any Borne Virus Tests. individual or agency • Take Home Naloxone Kits. Tel: 01896 750 173 • Support for adult family members affected. Quarriers Resilience for Wellbeing Service NHS Borders Addictions Service Tel: 01896 668 411 Tel: 01896 664430 • Support to children and Support to anyone 16 years young people to improve and over with drug/alcohol their emotional wellbeing, dependency and physical/ resilience including those mental health needs. involved with risk taking • Medical treatment. behaviours • Detoxification. • Based in each of the • Substitute prescribing. secondary schools across • Access to residential Scottish Borders rehabilitation. • Take Home Naloxone Kits. Other support available:

Action for Children Scottish MUTUAL AID Borders Chimes Service Alcoholics Anonymous Tel: 01896 750173 0845 769 7555 The Scottish Borders CHIMES Narcotics Anonymous service works with; 0300 999 1212 • Young carers, aged 7 - 18 Scottish Families Affected by years (children and young Drugs & Alcohol: people who are providing 08080 10 10 11 care and support to family memebers who are ill or disabled)

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 57 INJECTING EQUIPMENT SERVICES There are seven community pharmacies that can provide you with injecting equipment.

VENUE TEL OPENING HOURS

MON-FRI SAT

Addaction Borders 01896 757843 09.00 - 16.45 Closed Lindsay & Gilmour, Hawick 01450 372757 09.00 - 18.00 09.00 - 17.00 09.00 - 17.00 (Tues only) Eyemouth Pharmacy 018907 50374 Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 09.00 - 15.00 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 18.00

Thurs 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00 Lloyds Pharmacy, Peebles 01721 720729 09.00 - 17.30 09.00 - 17.00 Lloyds Pharmacy, Kelso 01573 224613 09.00 - 17.30 09.00 - 17.00 Lloyds Pharmacy, Galashiels 01896 755948 09.00 - 17.30 09.00 - 17.00 Jedburgh Pharmacy, 01835 863489 08.45 - 17.30 09.00 - 13.00 Jedburgh GLM Romanes, Duns 01361 883753 10.00 - 17.00 09.00 - 17.00 Addaction, Galashiels 0800 028 664 11.00 - 15.00 Closed

For further information on any of the above visit www.badp.scot.nhs.uk

SECTION F TRANSPORT IN THE BORDERS

BUS COMPANIES Details of services in the area can Border Buses be found by: www.borderbuses.co.uk • Visiting Traveline Scotland 01896 754350 www.traveline.info or by 01289 308719 phoning on 0871 200 22 33 • Visiting your local contact Busker’s centre or library to pick up a 01896 754350 bus time table • Visiting operator’s website Glen Valley Tours • Viewing information panels at www.glenvalley.co.uk bus stops 01668 281578 • Using the Bustracker App

Peter Hogg CONCESSIONARY TRAVEL 01835 863755 People who live in Scotland and are aged 60 and over or who have Scottish Borders Council a disability can apply for a National 0300 100 1800 Entitlement Card (NEC). This scheme provides free bus Stagecoach Western Buses travel throughout Scotland. You can www.stagecoachbus.com also use your NEC as your library 01292 613700 card. Your NEC is valid on bus services to and from Carlisle and Telford’s Coaches on bus service to and from Berwicl- www.telfordscoaches.com upon-Tweed from anywhere in 013873 75677 Scotland. It is not valid for travel within these towns. Travelsure www.travelsure.co.uk Over 60’s eligibility 01668 219291 • Aged 60 or older • A resident in Scotland

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS || INFORMATIONINFORMATION GUIDEGUIDE || 5959 Disabled people eligibility • Provision of cars amd drivers • Aged 5 or older under the Social Car scheme • A resident in Scotland for residents meeting certain • Meet one of the eligibility criteria, generally to meet criteria medical appointments

Young Scot Card If you need transport to health if you are aged 16-18 (or a or social care services anywhere full-time volunteer) you can get in the Scottish Borders you special deals on travel using can book community transport your Young Scot card, including online. 1/3rd off bus journeys and up to 50% of train travel. For further Alternatively you can telephone information, including if you the Flow Centre on 0300 456 1985 qualify, and guidance on what we to book and to check transport can accept as proof please visit availability across all community Transport Scotland - transport providers. You can www.transport.gov.scot also contact the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) on 01896 754481. COMMUNITY TRANSPORT Community transport RAIL TRAVEL organisations operate in local The Borders Railway operates areas and tailor the transport between Tweedbank and services they provide for Edinburgh Waverly Station. the needs of the specific • This service is operated by communities. They provide ScotRail. specialist, affordable transport • Tickets may be purchased for their members. Members online or at ticket machines are required to meet certain located at stations (card eligibility criteria. payment only). • Free parking is available Types of transport at Tweedbank and Stow • Individual transport for the stations. elderly and less mobile who • Regular bus services operate find it difficult to use bus at Tweedbank rail station services for further destinations, • Specialist wheelchair see Traveline for more transport information. • Transport to day centres and social centres • Minibus hires for affiliated clubs and organisations • Group hire of vehicle to affiliated organisations

Other rail links FURTHER INFORMATION There are regular bus rail link ON TRANSPORT IN services from the central Borders THE BORDERS CAN BE to the East Coast Main Line at OBTAINED FROM: Berwick Station and the West Scottish Borders Council Coast Main Line at Carlisle Passenger transport station. Council Headquarters Newtown St.Boswells • From/to Carlisle Borders Melrose Buses Service X95 TD6 0SA • From/to Berwick-upon- Tweed on Border Buses Tel: 0300 100 1800 Service 60 67

Both stations are staffed, have car parking, and are served by the following train operators:

• Berwick - LNER and Cross Country trains • Carlisle - Virgin Trains, Scotrail and Northern Rail

Timetables for these and other services can be found on Traveline Scotland. TAXI COMPANIES There are a variety of Taxi providers in the Borders and some are run by or offer discount to veterans - remember to ask when you call.

SECTION G USEFUL CONTACT NUMBERS

POLICE Trained staff can offer support Local policing is dealt with by and advice or tell you about an Police Scotland. There are police agency that can help. They can stations in the larger towns also act as a link to the police. although most are not open 24 hours a day. Opening hours will For any non-emergency issues be displayed at the entrance. or enquiries you can also access In an emergency you should use the Police Scotland website 999 and use 101 for all other www.scotland.police.uk where reasons. you will find an online reporting form, links to local policing plans If you do not want to speak and details of local community directly to the police to report a officers. crime then you can use one of the Third Party Reporting sites, In addition you can also contact which are located at Crimestoppers, who are independent of the police, via Scottish Borders Council Contact 0800 555 111 Centres (Hawick, Galashiels, Peebles, Duns) FIRE AND RESCUE Victim Support (72 High Street SERVICE Galashiels 01896 751212) The fire service will fit free Heriot Watt University smoke alarms in your home and (Netherdale Campus Galashiels give free advice on fire safety. If 01896 892178) you would like a free home safety check, call Freephone 0800 169 0320 or visit www.firescotland.gov.uk

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 63 NHS 24 EMERGENCY ANTI SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR MEDICAL HELPLINE TEAM NHS 24 is a 24 hour telephone The Antisocial Behaviour Unit helpline where you can get within Scottish Borders Safer medical advice when your local Communities is a confidential surgery is closed. You will reporting centre for people speak to a nurse advisor who who have problems with will assess your condition and noisy neighbours, vandalism, recommend a course of action. harassment or general This may involve arranging for antisocial behaviour. a doctor or nurse to visit you at home, or for an ambulance. Everyone is entitled to live in peace without harassment, Call 111 intimidation or general nuisance www.nhs24.scot behaviour. If someone’s behaviour is putting you in a SCOTTISH BORDERS state of fear or alarm then COUNCIL SOCIAL WORK the Antisocial Behaviour Unit can take action working with SERVICES police, landlords and other If you need urgent help from partners. This can range from Social Work Services at warning letters and face-to-face weekends or after working meetings through to Antisocial hours, call 01896 752111. Behaviour Orders. Monday 16:30 – 24:00 Tuesday 16:30 – 24:00 The Unit can be contacted via Wednesday 16:30 – 24:00 Scottish Borders Council Thursday 16:30 – 24:00 Council Headquarters Friday 16:00 – 24:00 Newtown St Boswells weekends and public holidays 0800 028 5711 (freephone) 9am to midnight. The freephone number 0800 028 5711 is available Emergency Services run from from 08:45 to 17:00 Monday midnight to 9am each night. to Thursday, and 08:45 to 16:00 on a Friday. email asbu@ scotborders.gov.uk.

SECTION H COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND VOLUNTEERING

SCOTTISH BORDERS If you would like to find out more COUNCIL about your local Community Scottish Borders Council is Council, contact us at; responsible for delivering local email: [email protected] government services in the area, such as schools, social services Or if you are looking for more and the libraries. For the full information visit; range of services and more www.scotborders.gov.uk/ information about the Council, communitycouncils visit www.scotborders.gov.uk [email protected]

COMMUNITY COUNCILS COMMUNITY CENTRES Community Councils represent The Community Centres in most their local area and are made towns have social activities and up of groups of local people events and further education who have an interest in the facilities. They can also be used community. for private bookings. (see section D for a list of community centres). The main role of Community Councils is to represent their area, to consult with local residents and pass their views on to organisations such as Scottish Borders Council and NHS Borders.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 65 CHURCHES AND PLACES GYPSY/TRAVELLING OF WORSHIP PEOPLE You will find most of the main Scottish Borders Council and its denominations of church in Community Planning Partners the Scottish Borders, the have a long and interesting most widely represented history with Gypsy/Travellers being the Church of Scotland and their culture, tracing back (Presbyterian). The Roman to before 1600. The famous St Catholic Church is present in Boswells Fair takes place each most towns and Methodist, July. Baptist and others can also be found in the area. Locations The authorised site for gypsy/ and services can be found in travelling people to stay is in a number of places, including Innerleithen. websites, local newspapers and libraries. LESBIAN GAY BI-SEXUAL & TRANSGENDER The website scottishchristian. com/churches list all churches GROUPS (LGBT) that have a website. Both the There are LGBT groups and Church of Scotland and the networks throughout Scotland, Roman Catholic Church have mainly in the larger towns their own websites, which give and cities. There is a Scottish details of each parish, locations Borders LGBT Equality Forum and times of services. Visit which can be contacted at www.churchofscotland.org.uk https://www.facebook.com/ and click on ’Contact us’, also scottishborderslgbt. There www.archdiocese-edinburgh. is also an LGBT Youth project comand click on ‘Parishes’. based in the Scottish Borders and the contact for this is Followers of Islam can join the www.lgbtyouth.org.uk Borders Islamic Group who meet every Friday at the Focus For more information Centre in Galashiels. For further nationwide, visit Stonewall information please email Shikat Scotland’s website at www.stonewallscotland.org.uk Aziz on [email protected]. Edinburgh has more churches and places of worship including those of other faith groups.

SPORTS AND LEISURE Two further facilities in the area CENTRES are run by other Trusts: Borders Sport & Leisure Trust operate sports facilities across Laidlaw Memorial Swimming the region: Pool and Fitness Centre Tel: 01835 863430 Eyemouth Leisure Centre (run by the Jedburgh Leisure Tel: 01890 750557 Facilities Trust) Galashiels Swimming Pool Tel: 01896 752154 Duns Swimming Pool Gytes Leisure Centre (Peebles) Tel: 01361 883397 Tel: 01721 723688 (run by the Berwickshire Kelso Swimming Pool Recreation Education Sports Tel: 01573 224944 Trust) Peebles Swimming Pool Tel: 01721 720779 There are also a number of private Selkirk Fitness Centre health clubs and fitness centres. Tel: 01750 20897 Look in the telephone book or ask Teviotdale Leisure Centre at your community centre. (Hawick) Tel: 01450 374440 Most towns have amateur football TriFitness (Galashiels) clubs and rugby union (15-a-side) Tel: 01896 757 224 clubs where new members, Tweedbank Outdoor Complex especially playing members, (Galashiels) are always welcome. Rivalries Tel: 01896 750456 between all the Borders towns Queens Leisure Centre are demonstrated strongly on Tel: 01896 752233 the rugby pitch and abbreviated Borders Tennis Centre 7-a-side rugby was actually (Galashiels) ’invented’ in Melrose more than Tel: 01896 750456 100 years ago. 3G Arena (Netherdale) Tel: 01896 800340

For further information on venues, facilities and membership, log on to www. bslt.org.uk

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 67 VOLUNTEER CENTRE on setting up a local group or BORDERS keeping an existing one going, The Volunteer Centre’s aims contact: are to involve more people more effectively in volunteering to help The Bridge, Central Borders make the Borders a better place 6A Roxburgh Street, Galashiels to live. Part of the Borders Third Tel: 01896 755370 Sector Partnership, and working email: [email protected] with Voluntary Action Scotland, the Centre can place volunteers with The Bridge, Tweeddale many different organisations in Newby Court the Borders. Activities can include School Brae, PeebLes befriending, gardening, DIY, pet Tel: 01721 723123 fostering and work with special email: tweedale@the-bridge. needs groups. Some opportunities uk.net will require a PVG check, but the Volunteer Centre can advise on The Bridge, Roxburgh this. Visit our website for more Veitch’s Close information. Castlegate, Jedburgh Tel: 01835 863554 Volunteer Centre Borders email: roxburgh@the-bridge. First Floor, Riverside House uk.net Ladhope Vale Galashiels TD1 1BT Berwickshire Association for Tel: 0845 602 3921 Voluntary Service www.vcborders.org.uk Platform One North St, Eyemouth Tel: 01890 750212 COUNCILS FOR VOLUNTARY email: [email protected] SERVICE NETWORK Scottish Borders Community Development Company known as The Bridge, along with Berwickshire Association of Voluntary Service, support the voluntary sector in the Scottish Borders. If you would like advice

YOUTH WORK SERVICES Throughout the Scottish Borders there are a wide range of youth work opportunities for young people. Delivered by Community Learning and Development (CLD) and voluntary sector partners, youth clubs offer young people a safe, fun environment to try new experiences, learn new skills and develop personal and social relationships.

Young people also have a range of exciting opportunities to get involved and influence the way services are delivered. They can become involved in decision making processes and work in partnership with service providers through a range of Borders wide youth projects. These include HYPPE (participation groups), MSYPs (Scottish Youth Parliament), BYHF (health services), Wired (radio broadcasting) and YOB (newspaper journalism). Young people also have the opportunity to develop content for the Young Scot Borders website www.youngscot.org/scotborders

For more information contact: Langlee Complex, Marigold Drive Galashiels TD1 2LP Tel: 01896 755110

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 69

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STRATEGIC POLICY LNC/BIU/AUPara/08/07SCOTTISH BORDERS COUNCIL | NEWTOWN ST BOSWELLS | MELROSE | TD6 0SA tel: 01835 824000 | www.scotborders.gov.uk

WE ARE KEEN TO HEAR YOUR VIEWS .... By completing and returning this feedback page you can share your views on this Veterans Handbook with us so that we can make improvements for the future.

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2. Did the handbook give a clear picture of living and working in the Scottish Borders from the perspective of an Armed Services Veteran?

3. Are there any areas that were not included that you feel are important?

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Please return this form to us at the: Strategic Policy Scottish Borders Council Newtown St Boswells TD6 0SA

DATA PROTECTION ACT 1998: Please note that the information you provide will be held only in relation to your request for further information regarding the Veterans Handbook.

WELCOME TO THE SCOTTISH BORDERS | INFORMATION GUIDE | 71 This booklet is intended to provide general guidance only. We have taken care to ensure that the information is correct at the time of printing, but it is not legal advice. If you decide to take any action based on the information in the booklet, you should consult the appropriate agency or public body first. If anything is missing or you have any other comments please return the questionnaire at the end of the booklet to us at the address that has been provided. This booklet can be downloaded by visiting www.scotborders.gov.uk and www.ourscottishborders.com

STRATEGIC POLICY Scottish Borders Council | Newtown St Boswells | MELROSE | TD6 0SA tel: 01835 824000 | www.scotborders.gov.uk

Printed in the Scottish Borders. Designed by Scottish Borders Council Graphic Design Section. GS. 17.10.19