Erskine Veterans Charity Recognises Staff & Volunteer Dedication

Erskine Veterans Charity, Scotland’s leading Veterans’ charity, has honoured the outstanding dedication and commitment of its staff and volunteers at the annual Long Service Awards ceremony, held at The Erskine Home in Bishopton.

The awards were presented by Chairman Stuart Aitkenhead, with service recognitions ranging from 10 to 45 years for both staff and volunteers. This year's ceremony celebrated over 700 years of combined service, showcasing the strong bond and dedication of the Erskine community.

A standout moment came when two members of the Jones family, who have worked with Erskine since 1977, were recognised for their incredible collective service. Siblings Michael (63) and Eileen (67) were awarded for a remarkable 85 years of combined service—Michael receiving recognition for 45 years and Eileen for 40 years. Chef Michael, who has spent his entire career at Erskine, shared his loyalty to the charity, saying, "I have never wanted to work anywhere else."

Amongst other members of staff receiving awards was Craig Berry (48) who started worked in what was then the Erskine Hospital at the age of 18. On receiving his 30-year Long Service Award Craig said: ‘I started with a work experience shift in care and 30 years later I am Activity Co-ordinator. It has been and continues to be an honour and pleasure to care for our residents.’

And RN (52) Valya Trandeva who said: ‘I am delighted to be receiving my 20-year service award. I started in Erskine as a Senior Carer and 20 years on I am a House Manager. No day is the same and it has been a joy working with such lovely people as our residents.’

Erskine Chief Executive Ian Cumming who opened the Award Ceremony said: “With over 700 years of service the staff and volunteers receiving awards today are a true testament to the dedication of those who serve Erskine. It has been said many times in Erskine that few people are lucky enough to work for an organisation they feel so passionate about. We are honoured that year after year our staff and volunteers deliver the vital services needed to provide the highest standard of care and support to our Veterans. I feel fortunate and humbled to work with so many people who demonstrate such an incredible commitment to Erskine.”

If you would like to more about more at Erskine visit our website at erskine.org.uk/about-us/work-for-erskine

To find out more about Erskine Veterans Charity’s work please visit our website at www.erskine.org.uk, follow on twitter @ErskineCharity via Facebook www.facebook.com/ErskineVeteransCharity or listen to Erskine Veterans Radio at Erskine.org.uk/radio. To donate directly to Erskine, please visit Erskine.org.uk/donate.