Over 1,000 Scots rural mental health first aiders trained

More than 1,000 people across Scotland have now been trained as mental health first aiders to support farmers and crofters, according to rural charity the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (Rsabi).

The milestone was announced during Mental Health Awareness Week (11-17 May) and reflects growing efforts to raise awareness of mental health and prevent suicide in Scottish agriculture.

The training programme has established a network of first aiders in rural communities across the country, including Shetland, Orkney, Aberdeenshire, the Borders and south-west Scotland.

See also: Farmers encouraged to take action on mental health this May

Delivered by Rsabi in partnership with former Royal Marines from IED Training Solutions, the programme is funded by the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust.

It is aimed at people who regularly work alongside farmers and crofters, helping them recognise signs that someone may be struggling and giving them confidence to respond appropriately.

Significant concern

Rsabi chief executive Carol McLaren said mental health continued to be “an area of significant concern” in farming communities, but added that initiatives such as the training programme were helping to encourage more open conversations.

“We know that having the knowledge and confidence to be more open in talking about mental health and suicide will help to save lives, and we have now developed a network of mental health first aiders who are playing a vital role to help keep people safe,” she said.

Free training

Rsabi said the course also includes former Royal Marines sharing their own experiences of mental health challenges.

The charity provides free training to agricultural businesses and organisations as part of its wider support services for people working in Scottish agriculture.

To arrange mental health first aid training or more information about applied suicide intervention skills training, email mentalhealthtraining@rsabi.org.uk.