Barrhead veteran praises Health for Heroes initiative during Armed Forces Month
An army veteran from Barrhead has praised East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure's Health for Heroes initiative, which offers free health and wellbeing support for veterans.
Article Source: East Renfrewshire Culture & Leisure
Last Updated: 13 June 2024 11:38
Willie McColl, 72, served for 23 years, mainly in the Territorial Army, spent time in Canada and volunteered for the Gulf War in 1990. When he initially returned from service, he took up a variety of roles for Glasgow City Council, sweeping the streets, cleaning toilets for football games, driving heavy goods vehicles and working in an office, before taking early retirement due to health issues.
Speaking during Armed Forces Month, Willie said: “When you finish, you miss it. Transitioning back into the 'normal' world is one of the most difficult things. When I first came back, I didn't belong anywhere.”
Willie endured a number of health issues over the years, including diabetes and hospital stays when suffering from pneumonia and sepsis. He was referred to East Renfrewshire's Live Active scheme, which supports members of the local community in becoming more active.
He explained: “I started speaking to the team and coming to the gym regularly, but stopped when we went into lockdown. I ballooned to 17.5 stones, so that's what got me into Live Active, where I learned about the Health for Heroes initiative.
“I am now around four stone lighter and one of the fittest in my classes. I attend twice a week and am also a volunteer assistant, so I support the classes by bringing down the tea, coffee and water and organising the chairs. I've found a wee role for myself and it gives me something to do. I'm also a member of a book club at Barrhead Foundry library. It's a release for me. I head to the gym after the Vitality classes for at least half an hour and mainly cycle and use the rowing machine. It does me the world of good.”
East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure was the first leisure trust in Scotland to launch the scheme in 2019, which gives armed forces, army, navy and air force veterans a free fitness membership. This membership includes a consultation with an exercise specialist from the Active Health and Wellbeing Team and access to the gym, fitness classes and swimming. If members are looking for social support too, they can attend the Live Active supervised gym sessions and the Vitality group exercise classes, where getting to know each other is encouraged.
Willie added: “Health for Heroes is important. Would I have been here without it? I don't know. I was getting into being an old man. Barrhead Foundry is a good place. I spend a lot of time here now.”
Active Health and Wellbeing Team member and Gym Instructor Chris Vance co-ordinates the Health for Heroes scheme at East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure. He said: “The Health for Heroes initiative is designed for ex-service men and women who need that extra bit of support due to mental and physical health conditions. The scheme has almost doubled in the last 18 months and our whole team supports them in their local community.
“The veterans have access to all of our facilities, from the gym and swimming pools to fitness and Live Active classes. It's good that they have someone they can come and speak to and we're often a listening ear, as well as supporting their physical wellbeing. Many of the veterans come regularly - some most days, others once or twice a week.
“Their stories are inspiring. They have been through a lot of tough times and challenges and some are still going through treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. They're doing really well and I'm always so impressed at how hard they work.”
East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure also hosts a veterans’ breakfasts to support the Health for Heroes members to engage with each other and offer local community support. The most recent breakfast at Barrhead Foundry had two guest speakers – Murdo Mackenzie, treasurer of the local brand of the British Legion and Councillor Campbell, Depute Provost and Veterans’ Champion. Murdo talked about the support and friendship offered at Mearns Bowling Club, where the British Legion meets every Friday. Councillor Campbell was pleased to hear more about the support being offered to local veterans and told the group she was delighted to be the local Veterans’ Champion.
East Renfrewshire Council Veterans Support Advisor Jane Duncan, who was a Warrant Officer and served in the army for 22 years, has witnessed the positive impact that the Health for Heroes service can have first-hand.
Jane added: “We owe so much to those who serve to protect our peace and freedom and this project is such a great example of ensuring that veterans have the best possible experience in the community.”
Find out more about East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure.
For more information on the British Legion meetings at Mearns Bowling Club, email: Murdomackenzie@hotmail.com
Sponsored Links
Latest East Renfrewshire News
Scottish Institute prepares to welcome the next generation of performers
The Scottish Institute of Theatre, Dance, Film & Television is preparing to open its doors on 31st October, inviting potential future students to explore its state-of-the-art facilities.
READ MORE
One week until Paisley Halloween Festival returns
Paisley Halloween Festival which comes back to town next week with some exciting event changes to celebrate its 10-year anniversary... here's everything you need to know!
READ MORE
SAY Award unveils bespoke glass prizes and Ceremony performances
The Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award has revealed a first look at the remarkable sculpted glass prizes this year’s Shortlist will receive.
READ MORE
Celtic Connections to shine bright this winter as 2025 programme unveiled
The world’s leading folk, roots and world music festival Celtic Connections has unveiled its ambitious, multi-faceted programme for 2025.
READ MORE
Into Film Festival Scottish Programme Announced
Education charity, Into Film Scotland, has launched the 11th Into Film Festival programme and bookings are now live for this year’s exciting edition in November.
READ MORE
The Scottish Wedding Show rings in its return to Glasgow this October
Country's largest wedding showcase is back and giving Scots the chance to snap up free tickets.
READ MORE
October holiday fun for ALL the family at Loch Lomond Shores
Loch Lomond Shores has got the October school holidays sorted with loads to see and do – from pet friendly days out to breakfast with dinosaurs and loch tours and much more!
READ MORE
Garden Centre gives children a magical grotto experience
Dobbies Garden Centres is unveiling a magical line up of festive experiences for all the family to enjoy this Christmas, including the much-loved Grotto which is back with a brand-new look.
READ MORE
Sterling Home says thank you to customers with in store promotions to celebrate its 50th birthday
This weekend, Sterling Home is celebrating 50 years as Scotland’s leading family-owned home furnishing retailer with a series of exciting in-store promotions across all stores.
READ MORE
Spooky season brings iconic classics and horror hits to Vue venues in Scotland this Halloween
Some of the latest horror blockbusters, as well as creepy classics and enchanting family favourites, will be heading to the big screen at Vue this Halloween season!
READ MORE
Biggest number of Sands Ribbon Displays ever for Baby Loss Awareness Week
Bereaved parents and families across Scotland remember together all those lives lost too soon.
READ MORE
The biggest weekend in Scottish running has arrived!
Over 30,000 runners will participate in the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run this weekend, making it the biggest staging of the event yet!
READ MORE
Comedian Craig Hill takes his latest hit show out on tour across Scotland
Comedian Craig Hill takes his latest hit show, I've Been Sitting On This For A While!, out on tour across Scotland later this month!
READ MORE
Amazing Silent Discos is bringing retro silent disco to The Old Fruitmarket in Glasgow
After a string of sold-out events across the US, Amazing Silent Discos is bringing its unforgettable retro silent disco to the iconic Old Fruitmarket for one night only on Saturday 2 November!
READ MORE
Enjoy a SPOOKtacular half term with Stena Line
If you're looking for exciting ways to keep the kids entertained this half-term, look no further than Northern Ireland!
READ MORE
Van Gogh: Poets & Lovers comes to cinemas nationwide on 6th November
Exhibition on Screen brings the National Gallery's stunning Van Gogh exhibition to the big screen, along with a deep dive into his fascinating life and incredible skill.
READ MORE
Get ready for a great big Living History Week
Historical re-enactors will be heading to Historic Scotland sites across the country this October for this year's Great Big Living History Week!
READ MORE
SAY Award announce Shortlist and Modern Scottish Classic winner
The Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) has today revealed the 10 Shortlisted albums now in the running for 2024’s Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award
READ MORE
Baby Loss Awareness Week unites bereaved families across the UK
People affected by pregnancy and baby loss will be joining together to take part in a range of activities to remember and talk about their babies this Baby Loss Awareness Week.
READ MORE
Cast announced for Jack and the Beanstalk at Eastwood Park Theatre
With panto season fast approaching, Eastwood Park Theatre has lined up a magical cast to take on the giant tale of Jack and the Beanstalk.
READ MORE
Family fun for all weather at the National Museum of Rural Life this October
Escape to the country this autumn for plenty of family fun, come rain or shine at the National Museum of Rural Life in East Kilbride!
READ MORE
Miller Homes makes kids across the West of Scotland visible this Autumn
Miller Homes, Scotland's leading homebuilder, is brightening the streets across the West of Scotland this autumn as it celebrates the fifth anniversary of its Home Safe campaign.
READ MORE
Twice the festive fun: Starry Nights Illuminated Christmas Experience makes highly anticipated return
Event that welcomed huge crowds at Dean Castle, will add a sprinkle of stardust with magical festive fun held at both the original venue and a new location at Beecraigs Country Park.
READ MORE
Vango teams up with VisitScotland to encourage responsible tourism
Leading Scottish camping and outdoor specialist brand, Vango, has announced it is working with VisitScotland to promote responsible tourism across the country.
READ MORE
Tim Visser and Kath Vass joined veteran rugby teams for Vets Fest
Ex Scotland rugby internationals Tim Visser and Kath Vass joined 800 Men and Women for Vets Fest 2024 to Celebrate Vets Rugby and Raise Funds for Wooden Spoon.
READ MORE
Community groups, local authorities, charities and schools urged to apply for funding to add trees in urban areas
Future Woodlands Scotland and bp are on a mission to add more trees and green spaces to Scotland’s cities and towns.
READ MORE
SAY Award opens public vote
The Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award, today invites music fans to ‘Have their SAY’ and vote for their favourite Scottish album, plus announces Karen Dunbar and more as judges.
READ MORE
Feel the Force with Cineworld 4DX Rewind
For a limited time, Cineworld presents a seismic lineup of blockbuster favourites, new and old, in immersive 4DX – all for just £5 a ticket or £3 for Unlimited members.
READ MORE
Captain Fantastic supports Dyslexia Scotland Awareness Week
Captain Fantastic, the UK's leading children's party company, is supporting Dyslexia Awareness Week in Scotland with two fun interactive online parties.
READ MORE
Lost Shore Surf Resort announces a Unique Festive Experience
Make waves this Christmas with Lost Shore’s Festive Dining Experience, an indoor winter wonderland with fire pit drinks, sharing menu, festive cocktail offering and option for surf lessons.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links