Young Scots farmers pilot live chat mental health app
Sayfc national manager Sheena Foster, Rsabi CEO Carol McLaren, Biggar Young Farmers' Club chairman Ross Jackson © Rsabi Young farmers in Scotland are piloting a new app that gives live access to qualified therapists who provide advice on mental health.
The Thrive Mental Wellbeing app is being rolled out at three Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs (Sayfc), fully funded by farming charity Rsabi.
Members from Aberfeldy, Biggar and Bell Baxter YFCs will test the app over the next 12 months. If the service proves successful, it will be extended across Scotland.
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The Thrive live in-chat app has almost four million users worldwide, but this is the first time it is being adopted within the UK agriculture industry.
Those taking part will be able to access a wide range of resources on mindfulness, relaxation techniques and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
For anyone who needs further support, in-app therapy is available between 8am and 8pm, with qualified in-house therapists to chat confidentially about any concerns.
Annabel Brown, Sayfc’s development and wellbeing chairwoman, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Rsabi and Thrive to pilot this app with young farmers across Scotland.
“With so many challenges facing young people, this app will provide a range of support and resources to help improve their mental health and wellbeing.”
How to get in touch
Rsabi chief executive Carol McLaren said tackling mental health issues is a priority for young farmers.
“We hope the app will help everyone taking part to look after their mental wellbeing, just as they would their physical health, and enable them to access the level of support they need – whether that’s using the in-app therapy or using the resources to improve sleep and resilience against stress,” she added.
“The app is also helpful for those who want to support a friend, family member or colleague who is struggling.”
The pilot is part of Rsabi’s drive to encourage more young people to use its services.
It follows the introduction of a 24-hour confidential webchat service on its website , as well as a freephone helpline – 0808 1234 555 – which runs 24 hours a day.
Rsabi has urged anyone in Scottish agriculture who is struggling with their mental health this festive season to get in touch.
Rabi doubles target to help farming families in need at Christmas
Farming charity Rabi has launched its Christmas Appeal to support farming families over the festive period, when many are having to severely cut back on their spending.
Rabi has doubled its fundraising target to £40,000 as demands for its support are increasing.
Donations received from the appeal will provide additional support with heating costs, food vouchers for families in crisis and other essential resources for those currently struggling.
A Rabi spokesman said £10 could heat a farmhouse for a day or an older farming person’s home, while £30 could pay for warm clothes, an extra blanket and an extra set of thermals. To donate funds, visit bit.ly/rabi-appeal.