SSAFA sponsors public artwork to raise awareness of Armed Forces support

19 February 2026

A partnership between public art organisation Wild in Art and cancer charity Maggie’s, the trail will see up to 40 giant Scottie sculptures and 60 “Little Scotties” pop up in the city and surrounding areas, attracting locals and visitors alike to visit them all and bag a Scottie selfie.

For SSAFA the trail is an opportunity to raise awareness of the tri-service charity, including the often life-changing support its staff and volunteers provide so that people in the Armed Forces community never battle alone.

SSAFA Regional Manager for Scotland, Ryan MacDonald, said: “Getting involved in the Scotties in the City trail is a fantastic opportunity to engage people with who we are and what we do, raising our profile and ultimately helping us support those who need our help in the best way possible.

“In Scotland we have a long legacy of supporting our Armed Forces, and at SSAFA we’re proud to be a trusted source of support for serving personnel, veterans, and their families, in their time of need.

“I look forward to seeing thousands of individuals and families explore the trail come summer, finding out more about SSAFA and being inspired to support and champion the Armed Forces community along the way.”

Scotties in the City aims to celebrate Glasgow’s social, cultural, and business scene, encouraging new visitors and inspiring residents to explore parts of the city they’re less familiar with.

When the trail concludes each of the Scottie sculptures will be auctioned off to raise funds for cancer charity Maggie’s, finding new permanent homes across Glasgow and beyond thanks to successful bidders.

Hayley Smith, Scotties in the City Project Manager at Maggie’s, said: “Wild in Art trails have had huge success in Scotland and across the UK, and we’re delighted to be bringing

Scotties in the City to Glasgow this summer. The trail has enormous potential to bring people together as well as raise awareness of causes, commerce, and culture in the city, and we are over the moon to have SSAFA on board as a Scottie sponsor.”

SSAFA has been helping the Armed Forces community – regulars and reserves, serving or retired, and their families since 1885. To volunteer or fundraise for SSAFA, or to seek support, visit the SSAFA website and click “find your local branch”.