FROM the First World War, through to today's conflict in Afghanistan, the brave and committed men and women in our Armed Forces make immeasurable sacrifices on our behalf.

It is always a privilege and an honour to attend the Remembrance Day service at the Cenotaph in George Square, where we can pause to pay tribute to members of our armed forces.

This year's service was led by our Lord Provost, Sadie Docherty, and was attended by thousands of members of the public who came to pay their respects.

As Leader of Glasgow City Council, I believe we all have a duty to provide practical support to our veterans.

Putting it simply, if you've fought for your country, you shouldn't have to fight for a job.

Our veterans have skills and experience that are marketable once they leave the forces – but it can be tough for veterans to re-adjust to civilian life.

We are committed to helping Glasgow's veterans into employment but, rather than just offering warm words and encouragement, my council will offer a wage subsidy to employers who recognise and reward their skills.

Last week I was delighted to announce the establishment of the Glasgow Veterans Employment Programme.

This will provide a range of training and support, as well as a wage subsidy to city employers taking on unemployed forces personnel.

Through our innovative partnership organisation, Glasgow's Helping Heroes, I believe that we offer our veterans the most comprehensive package of support anywhere in Britain.

I'm proud that Glasgow City Council has taken the lead.

I regularly meet with a range of businesses and community groups in the city and I recently had the pleasure of visiting Theatre Nemo, an organisation that uses the creative arts to help empower people affected by mental ill health.

Isabel McCue, founder and chief of the organisation, told me about the work they do to improve and promote good mental health and wellbeing, working with children and adults in the community.

Theatre Nemo also does valuable work with vulnerable people in hospitals and prisons.

During my visit I saw some of the fantastic artwork that has been produced by people who use their services

I also learned about the specific work they do with prisoners in Barlinnie, particularly to help them reduce their levels of aggression and to help them make positive choices once they're released and reducing the risk of re-offending.

Through the work of organisations such as Theatre Nemo, we can show that people with mental ill health can make a significant contribution to society.

You can find out more about their work at www.theatrenemo.org