Rural Hero award for SAYFC’s mental health campaign

A mental health awareness campaign run by the Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs (SAYFC) has been recognised at the Scottish Rural Awards.

The association’s Are Ewe Okay? campaign is this year’s recipient of the Rural Hero award, which pays tribute to the country’s unsung heroes and community champions.

Launched in May 2016, the campaign sets out to raise awareness of poor mental health among young people in rural Scotland. It explains the health triggers, how to recognise the signs, and where to seek help if someone is suffering.

SAYFC chief executive Penny Montgomerie said: “We are delighted to be recognised for our work promoting mental health, a topic which will touch most at some point, with one in four suffering poor mental health.

“This is why it is important to encourage the conversation and break the stigma surrounding mental wellbeing.’’

The association’s national chairwoman, Suzie Dunn, said: “We are thrilled to be celebrating the campaign’s second award, and overwhelmed with its impact, highlighting its importance within our industry.”

In October last year, the campaign was awarded the Farming Hero Award at the British Farming Awards.