Poppyscotland

#OnThisDay in 2003 the invasion of Iraq began, marking the start of the Iraq War. Today we think of all those involved in the conflict and the physical and mental scars they were left with. If you need support or advice, please get in touch today. Visit poppyscotland.org.uk/get-help

Mark your calendars, Livingston! The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland is bringing an unforgettable evening of music to Reconnect Howden Park this June. Date: 05 June 2026 Time: 7pm – 10pm Venue: Reconnect Howden Park, Livingston Tickets: poppyscotland.org.uk/get-involved/t…

For some in the Armed Forces community, homelessness becomes one of the toughest battles they face. Our Advocacy and Complex Needs service helps people access housing and long term support so they can rebuild their lives with dignity. poppyscotland.org.uk/get-help

To commemorate Lady Haig's Poppy Factory centenary, a specially designed range of badges and brooches is now available to purchase. 🛒 Order online: ladyhaigspoppyfactory.org.uk/collections/ce… Also available over the counter at the Poppy Factory: Mon–Thu | 08:30–16:30 (currently closed Fridays)

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Mums out there! Whether your Mum is serving or not, we would love to hear what makes her extra special. Give her a shout out in the comments below! ❤️

His arms and legs are held with branded “Haig” metal buttons and he is still intact today, a testament to the craftsmanship of the Factory’s workers. Explore the rich history of Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory here: poppyscotland.org.uk/centenary/fact…

Meet William the Teddy Bear Bought in 1945 from the George Street shop, William has travelled the world with his owner Barbara.

#Onthisday in 1941, the German Luftwaffe launched an attack on the munitions factories of Clydeside. The air raids of the Clydebank Blitz saw over 200 bombers take to the skies on the nights of 13 and 14 March resulting in 528 casualties and over 600 people injured. #LestWeForget

Each year, Jimmy the Driver and Jimmy the Salesman took the Poppy Factory’s travelling shop across the country: to Stirling, Perth, Dumfries and summer shows. They sold toys, leather bags, lampshades and furniture made by the men, bringing the Factory to communities far and wide.

They are wage earners. The Factory has given them, in addition to a living wage, that greatest of all assets, self respect. They are happy, and because of this their health has improved out of all recognition. Bittnernes among them is unknown.” (7)

Their meagre pensions are doubled and trebled by wages. They have pride in themselves and their work. They know they are no longer a drag on the market and a charge on charity. No longer does the dread spectre of unemployment hang over their heads. (6)

For many veterans, the Factory meant more than wages: it meant belonging. A 1934 report described men who had faced years of unemployment after injury finding “a haven here,” gaining self-respect and purpose through their work. The Factory continues that mission today. (1)

From three men with scissors in 1926 to a modern workshop today. The tools have changed, the purpose has not. Every poppy is still made with the same care and respect for those who served. Read more about the history of Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory poppyscotland.org.uk/centenary/fact…

He remained part of the Factory family until 1966, dedicating nearly four decades to the work and the people around him. Stories like John’s help us understand the importance of the Factory and the veterans who shaped it. Read more about John Young here: poppyscotland.org.uk/centenary/fact…

On 29 January 1929, he joined the Toy Department at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, where he found steady work, purpose, and a supportive community. (2)

In 1916, at just 18 years old, Corporal John Young of the King’s Own Scottish Borderers was badly gassed and wounded during the Battle of the Somme. Mustard gas often caused lifelong damage to breathing, eyes and skin — and John carried those injuries for the rest of his life.(1)