Resources and Assistance

ARMED FORCES ADVICE PROJECT (ASAP)

ASAP - advice and information for the Armed Forces Community

The Armed Forces Advice Project (ASAP) has been created to be the focal point for the Armed Forces Community in Scotland for access to advice, information and support.

ASAP is provided by the Scottish Citizens Advice Bureau Service, a highly trusted network with decades of experience delivering a free, independent, confidential and impartial advice service to the general public.

ASAP is funded by Poppyscotland, the RAFBF, the Maritime Charities group, ABF The Soldiers' Charity, SSAFA Forces Help, The Robertson Trust, Turn2us and the Scottish Veterans Fund.

WHO CAN USE ASAP.

You can contact ASAP if you are in one of the groups listed below:

Currently serving in the Armed Forces, either regular or Reserve, or a dependant of someone who is
Have served in the Armed Forces , either as a Regular or Reserve, or a dependent of someone who has
A member of the Merchant Navy who has served in a commercial vessel in support of legally defined military operations, or a dependent

If you are not sure whether this service is for you then call
0845 231 0300
And talk to one of our advisors

Small Business Loans

The 'Be the Boss' small business loan scheme is open to veterans who have exited UK Forces after 7th October 2001. This is a government funded scheme offering a part grant, part loan of up to £7,500 for business start ups and a maximum loan of £30,000 for business expansion. Loans are repayable on a monthly basis by direct debit at a 9.4% compound interest rate.

Applicants are required to work with Business Gateway or, if applicable Princes Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) to prepare a comprehensive business plan and financial projections. Successful applicants will be provided with ongoing assistance in the form of business mentoring, and will be required to take part in regular health checks for the first two years of the loan.

‘Be the Boss' is managed by The Royal British Legion, London and coordinated north of the border by Poppyscotland, working in cooperation with Business Gateway, Princes Scottish Youth Business Trust and Developing Strathclyde Ltd.

For more information on ‘Be the Boss' visit www.civvystreet.org or telephone 0131 550 1568 and speak to Dot Pringle at Poppyscotland

Poppyscotland's Small Business Loans Scheme is open to all veterans who are not eligible for the Be the Boss scheme (above). It offers an interest free loan, up to a maximum of £7,500 to applicants who can demonstrate a sound business proposal supported by a full Business Plan and Cash Flow Forecast.

For more information contact Dot Pringle on 0131 550 1568