Former head of Scottish Police Federation to team up with brother to deliver specialist vehicle to Ukraine

The vehicle will be used to help children evacuated from the recent flooding in Ukraine

The former chair of the Scottish Police Federation (SPF) is to travel to Ukraine to transport a specialist vehicle that will be used to support children traumatised by the war.

David Hamilton, who retired from his position at the SPF earlier this year, and his brother Duncan, a KC and part-time sheriff, will drive to Ukraine next week, with the vehicle that will be used to support children with counselling and music therapy.

The children being helped include those evacuated from devastating flooding in the Kherson region following a breach at the Kakhovka dam earlier this week.

David and Douglas Hamilton will be driving the vehicle to Ukraine.

David is on his fourth mission to Ukraine as a volunteer with Edinburgh Direct Aid. He returned from his last visit to the country just two weeks ago, while Duncan has previously worked in regions such as Georgia and Kosovo.

The pair are looking for a final push to raise the £20,000 needed to assist with the costs of upgrading and transporting the vehicle, and to support orphanages and shelters with much-needed supplies.

Thousands of children are internally displaced in Ukraine, with many more made homeless this week due to devastating flooding following the breach of a dam near the city of Nova Kakhovka.

The vehicle was donated to Edinburgh Direct Aid, but has required upgrade work to ensure it is passed to the Ukrainian partner charity, Small Wins, in a suitable condition and with disabled access. It will provide a consulting space for trauma therapy.

Duncan said: “We really hope this kind of practical help, working with a local Ukrainian charity, can make a difference. The fact David and I can do it together makes it even more special because it allows me to share for the first time what has been a passion of his for over 30 years.”

David said: “There is something special about doing a trip like this with your brother and I’m very proud that he’s been so keen to come along. Ukrainians have a strong belief in family and I’m sure they will appreciate this connection”. He added: “We still have more money to raise though so if you can assist, please do so.”

Donations can be made at www.edinburghdirectaid.co.uk/ukrainekids.