Ian McGregor: Poppy Appeal cash makes a major difference

Yesterday's article in The Scotsman ("Veterans lose faith in poppy charity chief") may seem like a small thing, but its confusing description of where donations to the Poppy Appeal go has the potential to have a very big – and detrimental – impact on this year's appeal.

To set the record straight, Poppyscotland – formerly known as the Earl Haig Fund Scotland – is solely responsible for the Scottish Poppy Appeal. We receive great support, both during the appeal and at other times, from branches and members of the Royal British Legion Scotland, but we are separate, independent charities with differing raisons d'tre.

Poppyscotland prides itself on being transparent and our website tells many stories of veterans who have received life-changing support as a result of public donations, as well as providing details of our financial accounts.

Last year more than 1,400 individuals received financial assistance to relieve hardship – people like Steve Beedie, whose life was spiralling out of control as he struggled to cope with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder after his time in Kosovo and Iraq.

A further 13 charities received more than 800,000 from us to help fund various support services for veterans. None of this would have been possible without the generous support of the Scottish public.

While we fundraise all year round, about two-thirds of our income comes from donations to the Poppy Appeal in November. Last year, donations helped us raise a record 2.2 million, a 9 per cent increase on the previous record in 2008.

Confusion as to where Poppy Appeal donations go is extremely unhelpful. The public must have complete trust that we are making best use of the money they give us. They can rest assured that we certainly are.

• Ian McGregor is chief executive of Poppyscotland