Support for colleagues and veterans during current conflicts
News on world events can impact us in a number of ways. The recent military activity in the Gulf and Cyprus means many people may be experiencing heightened stress, anxiety or emotional strain – particularly our veterans and reservists, those connected with our armed services or with the regions that are impacted.
Our Healthy Working Lives and Armed Forces Employee Network wants to remind everyone of the support available both within our organisation and through trusted external services. Please know that you are not alone and support is always available.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Our EAP provided by VIVUP provides free, confidential support 24/7 by telephoning 0330 380 0658. The service is here for you at any time if you want to talk to a trained counsellor, seek advice or access wellbeing resources.
Listening Ears
We have a network of trained Mental Health First Aiders who can offer a listening ear and help signpost support. You can reach out to them directly if you need someone to talk to about anything that’s on your mind. Just search “Listening Ear” on the intranet to find their contact details.
Armed Forces Employee Network
If you’d like to talk to a member of the network, please email armedforcesemployeenetwork@eastlothian.gov.uk and a colleague will be in touch.
External support for veterans
If you need advice, someone to talk to or information about support resources, several specialist organisations are available:
- Combat Stress offers mental health support for UK veterans, including help with PTSD, anxiety and depression
- SSAFA (the Armed Forces Charity) provides lifelong support to veterans and their families, including practical and emotional assistance
- Help for Heroes offers wellbeing services, recovery support, and community connections for veterans and their families
For advice on travel/impact on family members in the region
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)
For the latest travel advice or assistance for UK nationals overseas, visit the FCDO website:
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/foreign-commonwealth-development-office
CDO Travel Advice Hotline
For urgent queries about UK nationals overseas: 020 7008 5000.
Red Cross International Family Tracing Service
Support for people unable to contact family in crisis-affected regions: https://www.redcross.org.uk
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out whether through our internal services or the organisations listed above.
Cyclescheme: save money and spread the cost
Cyclescheme is the employee benefit that helps you cycle to work.
“You can never have too many bikes! It’s such a great option, whether you’re a keen cyclist or just need a commute to work. The scheme also allows you to buy cycle equipment and clothing. And there are tax benefits, with the monthly payments coming out of you wages before income tax is applied. I’d certainly recommend the service, which was definitely pain free and very quick.” - Emergency, Planning and Events Officer.
You get the new bike, e-bike and/or cycle accessories of your choice without paying a penny upfront. So, you can say goodbye to car and public transport commutes – and hello to a greener, healthier and happier way to travel.
Visit BHNExtras.co.uk to log in or create your free account and start your Cyclescheme request.
How does Cyclescheme work?
- visit a Cyclescheme partner store (instore or online) for advice and/or to build your bike package then make your application.
- once approved, access your certificate and redeem for your new bike and/or accessories.
- your hire agreement will start with tax-efficient, interest-free repayments taken from your salary.
- once all repayments are made – choose the ownership option that suits you.
Where can I shop?
You can shop with Cyclescheme in over 2,600 bike shops across the UK. This includes independent stores, national chains, online retailers and direct with brands. See the full list at: cyclescheme.co.uk/retailers.
“Within a couple of days I was given a code to pass on to the bike shop. This was then used to make the purchase in full and the following month payments started coming off my salary. I cycled to work for the first time this morning (03/03/26) and enjoyed every minute of it.” Business Support Administrator.
How much can I save?
Your exact saving depends on factors like your tax rate and the way your employer runs the scheme. Use the Cyclescheme calculator to see how much you could save.