‘I didn’t want to ask for help’: Veteran opens up about getting support after medical discharge from forces

An army veteran opened up about his struggle after being discharged from the forces on medical grounds, to a crowd of more than 200 people at an Armistice Day walk on Saturday.

Grant Scott, 49, from Torr Road, Penge, spoke to the fundraisers who came together at Crystal Palace Park for the 3km Crystal Palace poppy walk, to raise money for the Royal British Legion’s (RBL) poppy appeal.

While serving in 2004, Mr Scott was injured unloading missiles from a helicopter. Since the accident he suffers from osteo-arthritis – something he will always have – and means he needs a wheelchair to get around. 

He said: “I was medically discharged from the forces and originally didn’t want to ask for help, I was too proud. 

“Like most squaddies, I’ve always been stubborn and always will be.

“I eventually did reach out and the support the RBL gave me was amazing – carpeting my house, giving me white foods, and adapting my wheelchair so I could still cycle. 

“So, to everybody who is here today, raising money for the RBL to help people like me, I am so grateful to all of you for your support.”

The event is part of the RBL’s Poppy Appeal, which has been running since 1921, and aims to raise vital funds to help the Armed Forces Community.

Julia Bennett, poppy appeal manager for South London said: “Public donations are a lifeline for service people and their families, and last year, we helped more than 27,000 people in the Armed Forces community.

“We want to encourage as many people as possible to get a poppy this year to show their gratitude and support to those in the Armed Forces whose service and sacrifice should never be forgotten.”

Pictured top: Veteran Grant Scott, who was discharged from the army after he was injured unloading missiles from a helicopter (Picture: Royal British Legion)