Inverclyde soldier's new charity in aid of PTSD sufferers

Gourock man Jordan Finnegan, who hosts his own mental wellbeing podcast, has set up Help for Veterans together with fellow Scots Guards with whom he served in Afghanistan.

Their aim is to stop soldiers having to choose between financial stability and their own health.

Help for Veterans will provide them with vital funding to cover the cost of food rent and bills, while they get access to life saving treatment programmes run by other charities.

Jordan is setting up the charity with ex Scots Guards William Woodburn, aged 36, who owns his own business, Stephen Fisher, aged 39, as well as Thomas Docherty and David Morren.

Jordan and the team are now urging people in Inverclyde to join them in a collective challenge to run 457 miles to remember all those who fell in the fight against the Taliban.

Jordan Finnegan previously promoting his podcast  (Image: George Munro) Jordan, who is 32 years old, suffered from PTSD after serving in Afghanistan.

He said: "Our strength comes from our shared experience and deep understanding of what veterans are going through.

“We’re not just raising money. We’re raising awareness of the struggles veterans face and providing real, tangible support.

"We have all suffered in different ways and we now want to give back. It is something that is close to all our hearts.

"We have all lost people close to us because of PTSD.

"We are asking supporters and fellow veterans to run a mile to reach 457, the number of fallen heroes who died in Afghanistan."

Help for Veterans (Image: Duncan Bryceland) Jordan's podcast A Nail in the Fish, which he presents along with others from the Scots Guards, looks at ways to talk through mental health, and has featured a number of special guest stars, including comedian Gary Faulds.

The team recently took part in a challenge to climb Ben Nevis, raising £800 as part of their 'Run To Remember'. 

Stephen, who also served in the Scots Guards, said: "Events like these are vital for bringing people together and making a real difference.

"We’re so grateful for the support we’ve received so far, and we’re excited to continue raising awareness and funds through the ‘Run to Remember'.

William, the new charity's chair, said: "Historically there has been no support for servicemen and women leaving the army. When you are in there you are told to 'man up'.

"There is no support from the government when you leave. There are charities with great programmes, but sometimes veterans can't access them because they can't afford the other costs.

"We want to change that.

"We’re taking a different approach to veteran welfare. We provide financial support to cover the basic living costs for veterans while they attend life-saving PTSD courses.

"It allows them to focus on getting better without worrying about putting food on the table or keeping a roof over their heads.”