How this community garden near Edinburgh provides a haven for military veterans
Laura Mulcahy, of homelessness charity Cyrenians, runs a community garden for veterans near Edinburgh and is looking for ex-service personnel who were originally from Commonwealth countries in particular
Of all the people who presented as homeless in 2024/25, 926 had spent time in the military. It’s hard to know for sure, but I doubt there are many professions with such a clear correlation between leaving and homelessness.
So much so, that special measures have been taken to address this and we have seen a marginal improvement in outcomes for veterans over the last decade. However, the outlook is far from perfect, especially for those navigating more than one disadvantage.
The transition back into civilian life can be difficult. It can be challenging for veterans to navigate the often complex landscape of support services and access the right help at the right time, particularly as their needs evolve throughout the transition process.
When families are reunited, this can create unexpected tensions and strain as everyone adjusts to new routines and changing family dynamics. Military service can leave physical injuries and psychological trauma, which may contribute to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as gambling, drug use, and alcohol misuse.
Particularly at risk
Veterans from one of the 56 countries under the Commonwealth banner face these same problems, which are often compounded by the additional challenge of adapting to a country with cultural practices, traditions, and, in some cases, a language that differs from their own. The world they knew within the military is suddenly left behind, and they must navigate civilian life in a brand new place, which can feel unfamiliar, isolating, and overwhelming.
We know that people are most at risk of homelessness when experiencing a big transition in life – which is perhaps why Commonwealth veterans are particularly at risk.
In a small patch of land just outside of Edinburgh, I have run a veteran community garden for nearly four years. The premise is simple – to provide a space for people to relax and have a bit of fun. Life can be difficult and, in those moments, community and time spent outdoors can be remarkably effective.
This is particularly true for those with military experience. Tight-knit communities are forged in the Armed Forces, which often dissipate when people leave. As a result, Commonwealth veterans often rely heavily on their own communities and support networks, with limited trust in services or individuals outside them.
An invitation
Scotland is home to significant populations of Fijian and Gurkha Commonwealth veterans, as well as veterans from a number of African nations – but it is rare we see these people represented.
Over the years, I have been able to extend invitations to the community gardens to people from all backgrounds and recently, thanks to the Armed Forces Covenant Trust, I have received funding for workshops and events specifically targeted at veterans from Commonwealth nations. Once I’ve spent time consulting with them and their families, the money will be used on whatever activities they feel would be beneficial.
My sincere hope is that – over the coming months – I am able to use this funding to build a community of people from Commonwealth countries, who want to use our community garden as a resource, to aid their return to civilian life. It doesn’t matter how long ago you were serving or for how long. If that sounds like you – please reach out on [email protected].
Laura Mulcahy is senior garden and wellbeing coordinator at homelessness charity Cyrenians
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