Farmstrong Scotland hits funding milestone
© Farmstrong Mental health charity Farmstrong Scotland has reached a key fundraising milestone and is calling on the farming industry to help secure the charity’s long-term future.
Officially established in August 2024, the organisation held its first annual general meeting this week, confirming it has completed a two-year match-funding partnership with Movember.
See also: Farmstrong Scotland survey reveals mental health struggles
The initiative generated £700,000 to establish Farmstrong and deliver programmes supporting the mental resilience of farmers and crofters.
Farmstrong was launched in 2022 following the Doug Avery Tour, which drew thousands to hear first-hand accounts of the pressures of farming life and the importance of wellbeing.
The tour’s impact, alongside a voluntary steering group, helped secure Movember’s commitment to match every pound raised up to £350,000.
Chairman and founder John Scott described the achievement as “incredible”, thanking fundraisers and Movember for helping turn the charity into a national support programme.
“Every pound has contributed to ensuring the charity is a reality, and one that is already helping farmers and crofters across Scotland,” he said.
With match-funding complete, Farmstrong is launching new initiatives, including a 2026 fundraising campaign aligned with the Five Steps of Wellbeing – connect, take notice, keep learning, be active, and give – and the new Farmstrong business club, which enables annual donations supporting wellbeing resources and events.
Small team
Run by a small staff team and voluntary board, Farmstrong is urging the wider industry to support its work.
Director Alix Ritchie said: “Farming and crofting are unpredictable. Farmstrong is here to support, remind, and refresh the sector, while signposting those needing confidential help.”
The charity delivers free resources, workshops, events, podcasts, and online tools to reduce isolation and help farmers take small steps to improve wellbeing.
More information is available on the Farmstrong website.