Formerly known as the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association, SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is the nation’s oldest tri-service charity, and has provided lifelong support when, where, and how it is needed since 1885.

Last year, SSAFA’s teams of volunteers and employees – including 19 branches throughout Scotland, with around 200 volunteer caseworkers – helped more than 65,000 people in need, from Second World War veterans to those who have served in more recent conflicts.

The £1,000 donation from Persimmon will support staff and volunteers to carry on adapting their services to make sure the people they support get the help they need – now and in the future. The money has been delivered through Persimmon’s Community Champions scheme, which sees up to £64,000 donated to good causes across the UK every month.

SSAFA’s Michelle McConnell​ said: “All of us at SSAFA in Scotland are very grateful for the generosity shown by Persimmon to our veterans, those still serving, and their families.

“The support given by donors means that SSAFA can carry on doing the work it has for nearly 138 years in times of peace and in times of conflict, so, on behalf of everyone at SSAFA – volunteers, staff, but most importantly our beneficiaries – thank you.”

Chris Logan, Persimmon West Scotland managing director, added: “The SSAFA gives vital support to men and women who have served their country as members of our armed services right across Scotland. I’m delighted we’re able to support their work and I hope this donation will help them to reach even more serving members and veterans.

“Persimmon has a proud record of supporting our Armed Forces – earlier this year we secured a Silver Award in the Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme, which recognises employers that demonstrate support to the armed forces community.

“Our Community Champions programme is all about supporting good causes in the communities in which we operate and the SSAFA is a perfect example of that.”