Tag: RSABI

Great Glen Challenge surpasses £50,000 fundraising target for RSABI

The Great Glen Challenge, the annual fundraising event run by agricultural support charity, RSABI, has generated a record fundraising total in excess of £57,000. 

RSABI is sending a message of thanks to the sponsors, teams, supporters and volunteers who made the team sporting event on Friday, August 30th such a huge success. The excellent total achieved in 2024 takes the amount raised since the event was launched 12 years ago to over £500,000.

The event, sponsored by Scottish legal firm, Gillespie Macandrew, received unprecedented interest this year with 27 teams across Scottish agriculture businesses taking part in a challenging day of outdoor sport, testing endurance and fitness, as well as offering a great opportunity for teambuilding and camaraderie.

Set against a picturesque backdrop between Fort Augustus and Fort William, teams taking part in the 90km race combining cycling, kayaking, running and walking to support the work of RSABI included: Agrovista, Azets, Bank of Scotland, Scotland, Begbies Traynor, Bidwells, Blackhall & Powis, Crofting Commission, Johnston Carmichael, MHA Edinburgh, Gillespie Macandrew, Muckle Media, NFU Scotland, NFU Mutual, Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), Royal Bank of Scotland, Rural Payments and Inspections Division (RPID), SAC Consulting, Scottish Woodlands Ltd, SP Energy Networks, Thomson Cooper, Virgin Money and Women in Agriculture Scotland.

RSABI staff members Harry Seran and Margo Wills led the planning and delivery of the event which is designed to raise awareness of the work of the charity as well as the importance of teamwork and fitness for mental and physical wellness.

A team of volunteer marshals also played a vital part in the success of the event with special thanks going to George Lawrie who stepped down, after 10 years of volunteering at the Great Glen.

In addition to training and competing, each team had an ambitious fundraising target with the aim to collectively raise £50,000 to help RSABI provide emotional, practical and financial support to people in Scottish agriculture.

With this year’s total being exceeded by more than £7,000, Pauline Macmillan, Head of Fundraising at RSABI, expressed her gratitude: “We are immensely thankful to everyone who has contributed so far, and to our sponsors, Gillespie Macandrew and media partners The Scottish Farmer.”

“The dedication of our participants in both their fundraising and training efforts is truly inspiring, and our thanks also go to the many volunteers who assist us with the running of the event.”

“Our goal for the 2024 challenge was to surpass £50,000 which would take the total amount raised since the event was launched to over £500,000. This level of fundraising is incredibly important to support RSABI’s work to provide emotional, practical and financial support to people in Scottish agriculture.”

Lois Newton, Partner of Land and Rural Business at Gillespie Macandrew and RSABI trustee, added: “We were delighted to support RSABI and the Great Glen Challenge for a second consecutive year. 

“As longstanding advisors to the sector, we are familiar with the challenges facing people in Scottish agriculture and just how invaluable the work of RSABI is in providing support.  

“It was an inspiring day to be a part of, a fantastic opportunity to catch up with familiar faces as well as make new connections, and we’re delighted to see such a positive fundraising total for RSABI.”

The overall team winner for the second year was Scottish Woodlands, with Johnston Carmichael taking second team place, followed by the NFU, Ninja Focused Union Sportspeople, in third.

Individual awards were made to David Hamilton (mountain biking) of SPEN – The Land Guys, Mark Donald (kayaking) of NFU – Ninja Focused Union Sportspeople, Lawrence O’Hara (running) of Begbies Traynor and walking David King, Scottish Woodlands.

Supporters can continue to donate to the teams’ fundraising efforts by visiting the official event page at https://rsabi.enthuse.com/cf/great-glen-challenge-2024 or by texting GREATGLEN to 70450 to donate £10.

RSABI’s freephone Helpline – 0808 1234 555 – is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and calls won’t show up on phone bills. All enquires are treated as confidential by the organisation’s friendly, professional team.

You can make contact online on a range of social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and you can also reach RSABI via the webchat function on its website www.rsabi.org.uk 24 hours a day.

SAYFC launches RESPECT campaign at Royal Highland Show

The Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) is this week announcing a new RESPECT campaign which will be launched at the Royal Highland Show.

The campaign, which is being supported by Scottish agricultural charity RSABI, aims to encourage every young farmer to play their part in positively contributing to SAYFC as a safe, inclusive and fun environment for young people.

The initiative will promote healthy relationships, kindness and inclusivity through positive role modelling supported by education, training and awareness-raising.

As well as promotions at the Royal Highland Show and other events, along with social media activity, the campaign will see the appointment of Respect Ambassadors in every club throughout Scotland.

The initiative will focus on different priority areas through the year, with a focus on training and education. As well as Mental Health First Aid, First Aid and Suicide Prevention training, young farmers from each club will be offered Alcohol Awareness Training supported by RSABI, working with other organisations which specialise in these areas.

RSABI will have a Health Hut located next to the SAYFC building at the Royal Highland Show and this year’s activity by the team of health hut nurses will include a focus on alcohol and responsible drinking.

Working with DrinkAware and Alcohol Focus Scotland, one of the highlights will be an interactive display demonstrating how much is in a unit of alcohol, given the current societal trend for young people to save money by drinking alcohol at home before going out.

The campaign will also aim to raise awareness of the organisations which can offer specialist help and support to people who have been affected by any of the issues raised or negative behaviour. It is hoped that, as well as raising awareness among young farmers the campaign may also have a wider beneficial impact among people of all ages in the Scottish farming community.

Penny Montgomerie, Chief Executive of SAYFC, said: “This campaign builds on work which has been done by SAYFC over recent years to promote an inclusive and safe environment for our members and the wider community, driven by the Development & Wellbeing Committee and the introduction of a new Youth Development Manager staff role.

“We’re grateful to RSABI for their ongoing support, particularly around promoting positive mental health for young people in the industry. We look forward to working closely with them on the RESPECT campaign to provide 150 young farmers across Scotland with alcohol awareness training.”

SAYFC Chair, Ally Brunton, said: “SAYFC is a vibrant network that nurtures growth, celebrates achievement, and champions the future of rural Scotland, and is incredibly important for so many young people in the industry.

“It offers them a support system and enables them to be part of a like-minded community. By fostering a culture of respect and awareness throughout all levels of the organisation, we ensure that our members feel valued and supported, enhancing their well-being and creating a positive impact on the wider community.”

Jillian Kennedy, SAYFC Vice-Chair added: “The RESPECT campaign is a welcome addition to other ongoing SAYFC initiatives including our “AreEweOkay?” campaign, which encourages members to look after themselves and check in on others.

“We look forward to seeing lots of our members at the SAYFC centre at the Royal Highland Show, where RSABI will also be based, to find out more about the campaign and pick up a free branded t-shirt to help spread the important message of respecting yourself and each other!”

Carol McLaren, Chief Executive of RSABI, welcomed the initiative. “We know that young people across Scotland benefit greatly from the experience of being a member of young farmers as a source of friendship, fun and learning and we are pleased to support the positive steps SAYFC is taking to remind everyone about the importance of inclusivity and respect,” she said.

RSABI provides free emotional, practical, and financial support to people involved in Scottish agriculture. Its free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls won’t show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk.

The charity also offers free licenses to its Thrive Wellbeing app, worth around £100 each, which can be requested by calling the Helpline or emailing: 

helpline@rsabi.org.uk.

Counselling can be arranged simply and quickly and this is also free of charge.

Are Ewe Okay? Fiona the Sheep is Ambaasador for Mental Health

World’s Loneliest Sheep – Ambaasador for Mental Health Message

A sheep which shot to stardom last month when she was rescued after two years living at the bottom of some remote cliffs, is now helping to encourage steps to prevent loneliness in the agricultural community.

The Scotch Mule cross Charollais ewe was named Fiona by the team of friends; Graeme Parker, Als Couzens, Ally Williamson, James Parker and Cammy Wilson of The Sheep Game, who rescued her after she became known as the “world’s loneliest sheep” when Jill Turner spotted her while kayaking near the base of the cliffs.

The story of Fiona’s rescue attracted interest from the media around the world, with numerous TV stations and newspapers running the story – from CNN and the New York Times to the Sydney Herald.

She is now enjoying life – and lots of company – at Dalscone Farm, Dumfries where she is now helping to raise the profile of RSABI’s #KeepTalking campaign and the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs’ AreEweOK? mental health message.

“Fiona settled in here straight away and she’s doing really well,” said Ben Best, who runs Dalscone.

“We’re delighted that not only has she helped to raise £11,000 for RSABI and the Scottish SPCA, thanks to donations from people keen to help, she is now also helping to spread the word about such an important message at this time of year.”

Carol McLaren, Chief Executive of RSABI, said: “We know there can be a lot of loneliness in the farming community, particularly at this time of year, and the #KeepTalking campaign highlights how important it is for people to keep in touch and keep an eye out for anyone who could be feeling low or lonely.

“We know that just a little kindness can make a massive difference for someone who is struggling.”

RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support including counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry.

Its free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls won’t show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk.

You can find further information on the RSABI website www.rsabi.org.uk.  

Great Glen Teams Racing to Reach £50k Fundraising Target

With just weeks to go before RSABI’s Great Glen Challenge, 24 hardy teams from a wide range of roles in Scottish agriculture are now training hard for the multi-sport event between Fort Augustus and Fort William on August 25.

The teams are also fundraising in a bid to help RSABI, the charity which supports people in Scottish agriculture, reach the ambitious target of £50,000 by taking part in the event, sponsored by expert legal advisors to the rural sector, Gillespie Macandrew.

A fantastic total of around £18,000 has already been raised by those taking part, and RSABI is encouraging supporters to dig deep and get behind those taking part in the challenge to help the charity provide emotional, practical and financial support to people in Scottish agriculture.

The Great Glen Challenge 2023 will see competing teams of four plus a support driver take on a day jam-packed with activity in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland. The route consists of a 49km mountain bike, 6km kayak, 18km walk, and 17km run and is designed to challenge teams, promoting commitment and teamwork from the onset of training up to the day of the event.

After competing in last year’s Great Glen Challenge, overall event sponsors Gillespie Macandrew have this year signed up two teams – GMac Movers and GMac Shakers. NFU Scotland have managed to rustle up a brilliant total of three teams and SP Energy Networks have got two teams entered.

Others taking part include Bell Ingram, Bidwells LLP, the Crofting Commission, Davidson & Robertson, James Hutton Institute, Johnston Carmichael, Royal Bank of Scotland, SAC Consulting, Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (north region), Scottish Woodlands, Tarff Valley, Thomson Cooper Accountants, Thorntons, and Virgin Money, Bank of Scotland and Galbraith.

Last year’s winners, Team Shannoch, will also be back to try to retain their position at the top of the Great Glen leaderboard.

The Scottish Farmer is again kindly media partner for the event, and to support racegoers, People’s Ford are kindly providing a Ford Ranger to join the fleet of support vehicles, while letting agents Rettie & Co have signed up as this year’s route sponsors and map creators. 

As well as offering an event with a unique team-building spirit, the Great Glen Challenge also highlights the importance of keeping fit to maintaining good physical and mental health. 

Carol McLaren, RSABI Chief Executive, said: “There is something very special about the Great Glen Challenge and we are delighted that so many people from different parts of Scottish agriculture are this year getting behind it. 

“Everyone is busy and for so many people to make time to support our flagship fundraising event of the year means a great deal. Our thanks also go to everyone who kindly sponsors the teams and a special thanks to Gillespie Macandrew, our overall event sponsor this year.

“Our thanks also go to the volunteers who help us run the event, our media partners, The Scottish Farmer, and all those who have already generously donated to the competing teams. Donations have been coming in thick and fast, setting us in good stead to reach our ambitious £50,000 target.”

Team donations for the Great Glen challenge are now open.

To donate and find out more about how to support the teams, visit:  

www.rsabi.org.uk/event/rsabi-great-glen-challenge-2023/. 

Fresh Start one of eight Edinburgh charities shortlisted for awards

Vote for your favourite Scottish Charity Awards finalist!

Run annually by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), the Scottish Charity Awards celebrate the best of Scotland’s voluntary sector.

This year’s shortlist includes 32 individuals and organisations from charities and voluntary groups across the country. While a judging panel will determine the winners under nine distinct categories, members of the public can have their say by voting for their favourite overall entry in the People’s Choice Award – by visiting scvo.scot/vote – before 5pm on Wednesday 24 May 2023.

There are eight Edinburgh-based organisation and individual finalists:

  • Capability Scotland (Pioneering Project)
  • Children’s Hospices Across Scotland – Charlie Leavy (Employee of the Year)
  • Fresh Start Scotland (Community Action)
  • Edinburgh Science (Climate Conscious)
  • YouthLink Scotland (Climate Conscious)
  • Brain Health Scotland – My Amazing Brain (Campaign of the Year)
  • Feniks  – Shed Your Armour, Show the Scars (Campaign of the Year)
  • RSABI – David Leggatt MBE (Trustee of the Year)

Winners will be announced on 23 June 2023 in a celebratory awards ceremony hosted by broadcaster Sally Magnusson at the Sheraton Hotel, Edinburgh.

Anna Fowlie, Chief Executive, SCVO said: “The Scottish Charity Awards are a fabulous opportunity to celebrate the exceptional individuals and groups within our vibrant sector. 

“This year’s record-breaking number of nominations underlines the strength of Scotland’s voluntary sector, and the crucial work that we see from charities and voluntary organisations across the country. The hard work and dedication of people and organisations like these 32 finalists are making Scotland a better place to live and work.

“There is still a chance to have your own voice heard by voting in the People’s Choice Award. Don’t be late – participate!”

The full shortlist is:

Campaign of the year

  • Feniks – Shed Your Armour, Show the Scars
  • Brain Health Scotland – My Amazing Brain
  • Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity – Jack’s Wee Snowman with the Big Heart
  • Western Isles Violence Against Women Partnership – Safer Outer Hebrides

Volunteer of the year

  • Andrii Zhehestovskyi – Libraries & Information Services Dundee
  • Garry Duthie – Camphill School Aberdeen    
  • Gordon Harkin – Cancer Support Scotland

Pioneering project

  • Quarriers
  • SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health)
  • GEMAP
  • Capability Scotland
  • Cycling Without Age Scotland

Employee of the year

  • Man On! Inverclyde – Peter Canevale
  • Children’s Hospices Across Scotland – Charlie Leavy
  • Beatson Cancer Charity – Paul Sheerin

Community Action

  • Fresh Start Scotland
  • Golden Friendships
  • Maryhill Integration Network

Climate Conscious

  • YouthLink Scotland
  • Edinburgh Science
  • Climate Action Strathaven

Trustee of the year

  • Disability Snowsport UK – Carmel Teusner
  • Amma Birth Companions – Vongayi Mufara
  • Glasgow East Alcohol Awareness Project – John Strange
  • RSABI   – David Leggat MBE

Digital Citizens

  • Simon Community Scotland
  • Scottish Union of Supported Employment
  • North East Sensory Services (NESS)

Charity of the year

  • Team Jak Foundation
  • Maslow’s Community
  • Diversified
  • Community Food Initiatives North East