Erskine has opened a new veterans activity centre in Forres in the north of Scotland and, by the look of the early uptake, it’s landed exactly where it needs to.
Based in the former Victoria Hotel on Tytler Street, the Erskine Veterans Activity Centre North is a proper, purpose-built space for veterans to meet up, get active, build confidence and access support without feeling like they’re walking into a formal appointment. It’s open weekdays and designed as a drop-in hub, not a “come back in six weeks” service.
The charity says the building has gone through a £1.3 million refurbishment, turning an old town-centre site into a modern facility built around wellbeing, practical activities and community. It opened to members in December 2024 and has been gathering pace since.
Why Forres, and why now
Erskine’s view is that there’s a clear need in Moray, which is often described as having one of the largest veteran populations in Scotland, shaped by the long-term presence of bases like RAF Lossiemouth and Kinloss Barracks. A strong forces footprint can mean a strong veteran community, but it also means there are plenty of people who can end up isolated once they’re out, particularly if health, work or family life takes a hit.
The centre is part of Erskine’s wider approach. Not just care for the older generation, but ongoing support that helps veterans stay connected and in a routine, whatever age they are.
What it actually offers
This isn’t being billed as a “chat and a cuppa” venue, even though that’s part of it. Erskine describes a mix of physical, social and skills-based activity. That includes things like gym sessions, archery, woodwork and arts-based projects, plus IT and other practical sessions. The idea is simple. Give people reasons to get out the house, keep moving, keep learning and stay around others who get it.
There’s also peer support and wellbeing work running alongside the activities, plus communal dining, which matters more than people admit. A lot of veterans don’t need a lecture, they need a place where they can turn up, feel normal, and get back into the habit of being around people.
The early numbers are strong
Erskine said that by spring 2025 the centre had already welcomed more than 300 members since opening. More recently, an update shared through the Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce said membership had passed 600 fully signed-up members, which is serious growth for something that’s still relatively new.
That same update highlighted the experience of RAF veteran Steven Gray, who described being isolated before getting involved and then rebuilding confidence and independence through the centre. It’s a useful example because it shows what places like this are for. Not a big speech, not a grand gesture. Just steady support, routine, and community that’s actually there when you need it.
Backed properly, not a token project
The centre’s official opening event in April 2025 brought in a mix of local and forces community representation. Erskine’s own write-up names RAF veterans involved in the ribbon cutting, along with the charity’s leadership and ambassador Scott Meenagh, a Team GB Paralympian. It’s the sort of backing that suggests this is a long-term commitment, not a short-lived pilot.
Even in the earlier launch period, Erskine noted political and local interest, including a visit linked to the Minister for Veterans and local MPs.
Where it fits in Erskine’s wider work
Erskine positions itself as delivering support across Scotland through specialist care homes, activity centres, home support services and housing, including supported accommodation. Forres adds a northern hub that’s clearly aimed at keeping veterans active and connected, not waiting until problems become crises.
The details
Erskine Veterans Activity Centre North is at 1 Tytler Street, Forres, IV36 1EL. Erskine lists opening hours as 09:30 to 15:30, Monday to Friday, and contact details are available via Erskine’s EVAC North page, including the centre email evacnorth@erskine.org.uk.
If Erskine can get something like this established in the heart of Forres, and grow it to hundreds of members in its first year, that’s a strong signal. Veteran support works best when it’s local, consistent, and doesn’t make people jump through hoops. This centre looks like it’s been built with that in mind.
