Charity Spotlight- RSABI

Can you tell us a little about RSABI, the work you do, and the support you offer?

“RSABI is a charity that provides financial, practical and emotional support to people involved in Scottish agriculture, including farmers, crofters, farm workers and their families, plus many other related roles. People can get in touch through our free 24-hour helpline 0808 1234 555 or webchat on the RSABI website www.rsabi.org.uk

We help with all sorts of issues and can support people through difficult times. That might be help with essential costs like food, clothing or household items, advice around benefits, debt or employment and emotional support. We can also arrange free counselling for anyone who is feeling stressed, overwhelmed or struggling.

My role at RSABI focuses on suicide prevention, helping raise awareness of the support available both through RSABI and from other organisations across Scotland.

We’re so grateful to the people who have shared their own experiences of mental health challenges. Their experiences help raise awareness and encourage others in our industry to reach out for support knowing that they are not alone.

Alongside our free Mental Health First Aid training, we now offer Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) for anyone working in agriculture. It’s a practical course that helps people feel more confident about supporting someone who may be struggling.”

What are some of the biggest wellbeing challenges you see facing young people in agriculture today?

“Living and working in rural areas can sometimes feel quite isolating, and that can affect people of all ages. While we’re more connected than ever through social media, it can also bring a lot of pressure and often doesn’t show the reality that comes with daily life.

Working in agriculture can come with a lot of uncertainty, whether that be with financial pressures, succession planning and the difficulties some people face getting into farming.  RSABI can offer practical support and work alongside other organisations to help with things like business reviews and exploring financial support options. Sometimes people just need someone to listen, and we’re here for that too!”

How can we encourage more conversations about wellbeing on farms and help people better manage their wellbeing?

“By talking about how you’re doing, how your week has been, or any challenges you’re facing can really help these conversations as part of day-to-day life.  Often it encourages others to open up and share how they’re feeling too.

Looking out for one another is important as well. Checking in with friends, neighbours, colleagues and family members, and taking the time to really listen, shows you care and can make a huge difference to someone who’s having a tough time, more than we might realise.”

What does “Are Ewe Okay?” mean to you?

“I think Are Ewe Okay? is such an important initiative from SAYFC. It encourages us to check in with the people around us and to take a moment to think about our own wellbeing too.

It helps start conversations that might not otherwise happen and reminds us to treat our mental health with the same care and attention we’d give our physical health. I think it’s brilliant and a very important reminder for all of us.“

“If you’re reading this today and things are feeling difficult, please know that you don’t have to carry that on your own. Support is available, and there are people who want to help.

Try to be kind to yourself and try to treat yourself like you would a good friend.  Reach out to someone you trust or get in touch with RSABI. We’re here day or night to listen and support you, and we understand the challenges that can come with farming life.”