The inaugural Erskine Veterans Charity Corporate Partners Day was hosted at the Benromach Distillery in Forres, bringing together businesses from across Moray to learn more about the charity’s local impact and how the corporate community can play a direct role in supporting Veterans across the North of Scotland.
Corporate guests, supporters and local organisations gathered on 5 February for networking, updates from the charity, and powerful personal testimonies from those who use and benefit from the Erskine Veterans Activity Centre (EVAC) North in Forres.
Attendees heard from Shaun Moat, Chair of the EVAC North Members Committee, who spoke candidly about how Erskine saved his life and the importance of continued support to ensure other veterans can access help, connection and renewed purpose.
David Grant, Centre Manager, provided updates on the centre’s growth and community impact, while veterans Stevie Gray and Dougie Duguid shared what EVAC North has meant to them personally, highlighting the value of companionship, routine, and a place where veterans feel understood.
The event also included an overview of Erskine’s wider work across Moray and the North of Scotland, where veterans make up a significant part of the local community. Erskine highlighted that 9% of Moray’s population are Veterans, with over 32,500 Veterans across North Scotland.
Michael Parkes, North of Scotland Fundraising Manager, and Caitlin Brown, Corporate and Partnerships Fundraiser, outlined practical ways businesses can support EVAC North, including charity partnerships, events, staff fundraising, donations and gifts in kind. Erskine shared that EVAC North needs to annually raise £500,000 to continue its work.
Michael Parkes said, “It was a privilege to host Erskine’s first Corporate Day in Moray. I would like to thank our staff and members from EVAC North for sharing their powerful personal stories, which demonstrate the incredible work of our Centre in changing and saving veterans’ lives. We are also grateful to Benromach Distillery for being such a special venue, and to our guests for attending, listening and exploring how they can stand alongside the veteran community in the year ahead.”
EVAC North opened in January 2025 on the site of the former Victoria Hotel in Forres and has already welcomed over 600 members. The centre provides a supportive environment that helps veterans rebuild confidence, reconnect socially, and strengthen relationships at home.