Walk to Wellness encouraged employees to record daily activities, such as walking the dog or cycling to work instead of driving. The route started at Origin’s most southerly site at Plymouth, in Devon, and moved north along the west coast sites of Avonmouth, Newport, Sharpness and Silloth.  

It then navigated clockwise around the three Scottish facilities – Ayr, Invergordon and Montrose – before heading east to Origin’s latest site at Port of Tyne, onto Immingham and Great Yarmouth, with the virtual route ending at the company’s Royston HQ. 

Origin donated £1 for every mile covered, with the total eventually reaching 1,762 miles by the end of the month. Mandy McAulay, Origin’s head of marketing and product sustainability, said that the idea was part of the Local and Vocal campaign.  

“The health benefits of exercise are well known, and we wanted to give our team a reason to get outdoors and do something for charity, whilst clearing their minds before or after work.  

“Our industry is intrinsically linked to the countryside, and, with an average distance between our sites of 134 miles, it was a fun challenge to see if we could collectively walk between them to highlight our proximity to farms.” 

Good cause

Origin’s 11 production facilities are strategically located around the country. This means a lower transport mileage for products and easier access to Origin’s range of prescription nutrition.  

Participants would have virtually walked over woodland, grass fields, maize crops and arable land, and through fields of Origin users. The additional miles covered above the target meant £144 was donated to two members of the team who were undertaking other charity events.  

Virginia Edgecombe, YANA trustee, said that the money raised by Origin will go towards vital work undertaken by the charity. 

“We are hugely grateful to all at Origin Soil Nutrition who have raised funds for us walking from site to site – it has helped us spread the message: You Are Not Alone. Some of the money can be used to fund up to nine sessions with a professionally qualified counsellor or invest in mental health first aid training and build a better understanding of mental health to reduce stigma.  

“YANA also runs a national suicide prevention campaign, so the funding will be used to help rural communities in the best way possible.”  

Read more rural news. 

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Mr Stewart from Kelso in the Scottish Borders tragically took his life in June 2024 at the age of 60.

His wife Caroline and their three children, Victoria, Emily, and Charlie, along with family and friends, had taken on a challenge to walk the length of the Kintyre Way between 2nd and 7th June 2025.

The walk, named ‘100 for One’, honoured Mr Stewart’s memory while shining a light on mental health challenges in agriculture.

Their efforts raised a phenomenal sum for RSABI, the charity supporting people in Scottish farming. The challenge fundraised £74,134.65, with Gift Aid contributions bringing the grand total to £88,726.69.

Driven by support and solidarity, the emotional 100-mile journey was an opportunity for the group to reflect and share fond memories of Mr Stewart.

The group said that kindness and generosity received throughout the walk, from heartfelt messages to generous donations from across the agricultural community and beyond, made this challenge even more special.

READ MORE: Family and friends walk 100 miles in memory of farmer Neil Stewart

READ MORE: ‘100 for One’ Kintyre Walk encourages farmers to #KeepTalking

Important message for farming community

Caroline Stewart said: “We are completely overwhelmed and so deeply thankful for the support we’ve received throughout this journey.

“The kindness, encouragement and solidarity shown, along with the amazing donations raised for RSABI, are what kept us going. Being surrounded by friends and family every step of the way meant the world to us.

“The walk was an opportunity to honour Neil, who we miss every day, while raising awareness of mental health within the farming community. If our message has managed to reach just one person and encouraged them to reach out for help, then it has been more than worth it.”

The family’s campaign has not only raised funds for RSABI’s vital support services, including its 24/7 helpline and free counselling, but has also helped to deliver the powerful message that no one in Scottish agriculture should feel alone.

Carol McLaren, RSABI chief executive, said: “The strength, courage, and determination shown by the Stewart family has been nothing short of inspirational.

“By bravely sharing Neil’s story, they have made a profound difference to the farming community, delivering an incredibly important message that no one in Scottish agriculture should feel alone and that help is available as well as raising over £70,000 in the process, a truly remarkable achievement.

“We are very grateful to everyone who walked, donated, or shared the ‘100 for One’ message. The impact of this collective effort will continue to support and inspire others long after the final mile was walked.”

To support the Stewart family’s ongoing fundraising, donations can still be made via JustGiving page here or by texting 100FORONE to 70450 to donate £20.

Get help

RSABI’s free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls will not show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk.

If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:

• Samaritans: 116 123 (available 24/7)

• Breathing Space: 0800 83 85 87 (available Monday to Thursday 6pm to 2am. At weekends, open between Friday 6pm and Monday 6am)

• NHS 24 mental health hub on: 111 (available 24/7)

If you are ever in immediate danger or have the means to cause yourself harm, you should dial 999 and request an ambulance.

Read more rural news.

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The 31-year-old man from Turriff, who has earned recognition as Scottish farming’s very own Forrest Gump, is now over halfway through his two-week challenge, travelling the length of Scotland on foot to raise awareness of the pressures facing those working in the agriculture industry and encourage more open conversations about mental health.

Mr Maclellan said: “For those who don’t know my story, I’ve struggled with depression for more than 15 years. I hid it for the most part, but things really spiralled in 2022, and I attempted to take my own life. Since then, I’ve made a big effort to talk more openly and honestly about how I’m feeling.”

The farm worker said that there is still some stigma around mental health, particularly for men, and that needs to change.

“Farming can be a very lonely and isolating job. There’s a lot of pressure, whether it’s financial, the weather, or the wider challenges the industry is facing. We’re not always great at looking after ourselves or talking about it, and I want to do what I can to help others speak up and get support when they need it,” he continued.

Ask for help

This challenge is the latest in a series of fundraising efforts Mr Maclellan has completed for RSABI. Last year, he took part in a 184-mile coast-to-coast walk from Aberdeen to Morar wearing wellies and a 24-hour challenge climbing Bennachie 17 times, the equivalent height of Mount Everest.

In 2024 he raised £4,800 in his two challenges, and over the past week he has already racked up a further £3,300 via his JustGiving page.

Mr Maclellan added: “RSABI does an amazing job of supporting people across the industry, and it’s important that more people know about the help that’s available and feel able to ask for it.”

He said that the messages of support and donations he has been receiving have kept him motivated throughout his journey from John O’Groats to Gretna.

Carol McLaren, RSABI’s chief executive, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Duncan; what he’s doing is quite outstanding and making a real difference. He has already done so much for RSABI and in raising awareness around mental health in the industry by bravely sharing his story and in this latest challenge.

“He is also reminding us of the importance of exercise and taking time for quiet reflection for our mental as well as physical health. Incredibly he doesn’t have a single blister, and, having reached Perthshire, he still has a spring in his step!

“Our thanks to everyone who has supported and donated so far. We know that Duncan has been reading all the messages at the end of each day, and they’re really helping to keep him going, so please keep them coming and give him a wave if you see him on the road.

“And, of course, there is still plenty of time to donate, and the money raised will go towards helping people in the industry access RSABI’s vital support services.”

To support Mr Maclellan and give him encouragement on the final leg of his journey, donations can be made via JustGiving page.

RSABI’s free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls will not show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk.

If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:

• Samaritans: 116 123 (available 24/7)

• Breathing Space: 0800 83 85 87 (available Monday to Thursday from 6pm to 2am and during weekends between 6pm on Friday and 6am on Monday)

• NHS 24 mental health hub on: 111 (available 24/7)

If you are ever in immediate danger or have the means to cause yourself harm, you should dial 999 and request an ambulance.

Read more rural news.

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The team has found a 60-acre farm with a house, annexe, farm buildings and polytunnels in Somerset, which they plan to turn into a working care farm venture called ‘Merry Moos’ to support people with social isolation and mental and physical health issues.

Pip has been offered a 75% mortgage and now needs to raise the final £475,000 to get over the final hurdle.

She said: “One in five of us will suffer from a well-being issue in our life, and we want to be there to help.

“A survey of Somerset residents in 2022 found that the most common issue was mental health and wellbeing (77%), closely followed by loneliness and social isolation (64%). Despite an extra £13 million funding granted in 2019, Somerset has continued to suffer a rise in diagnoses and prescriptions, and a lack of mental health services.”

The farm will be open to people who are over the age of 60, have learning or physical disabilities, are ex-services personnel, or who have been referred via adult social care.

“We want to provide a safe and inclusive space where people can experience the calm of nature and the benefit of physical exercise to improve mental health and battle social isolation,” Pip explained.

Extra help needed

Clients will be able to get involved with activities in an outdoor environment, from growing and harvesting fruit, vegetables and flowers to feeding hens, collecting eggs and helping out with the large animals.

The former farmer continued: “We also want to create a small wildlife area to help local native birds and small mammals, plant native trees and hedging and introduce bee hives at some point.”

The business’ income will be generated from fresh produce sales, social referrals, short holiday stays, and commercial store cattle. As a registered Community Interest Company, surplus income will be reinvested back into the project.

“Having already secured the mortgage, we just need some extra help to get us over the line,” said Pip, who suffered her own mental challenges a few years ago, triggering her to turn something negative into something positive for the wider community.

The group has entered a Crowdfunder competition, which needs to raise £1,000 by the end of July to be in with a chance to win a £10,000 first prize. They are also offering a 5.75-6% PA return on investment for larger sums.

“We’re not here to duplicate services – we’re here to fill a vital gap. Existing mental health services are stretched, and too many people are left behind. We believe everyone deserves community, nature, and purpose. With your support, Merry Moos can bring that to life,” Pip concluded.

Support the fundraising here.

Read more rural news.

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The three-year PhD project will be supervised by Professor Rory O’Connor, director of the university’s Suicidal Behaviour Research Lab, who is one of the world’s leading experts in the field of suicide prevention. 

RSABI and the University of Glasgow are inviting interest from prospective PhD researchers to undertake this vital work.  

The study will combine academic rigour with real-world impact, addressing the distinct challenges faced by people working in agriculture, a sector where stress, isolation, and poor access to healthcare contribute to significantly higher risks of mental ill-health and suicide. 

The research will begin with a comprehensive review of existing literature to explore the relationship between agricultural life and suicide risk.   

In its second year, the project will conduct a national survey examining psychological and social factors affecting mental health in the farming community viewed through the Integrated Motivational-Volitional model of suicidal behaviour, a model of suicide developed by Professor O’Connor.  

The final phase will involve in-depth interviews with individuals from agricultural backgrounds who have experienced suicidal thoughts or who have been bereaved by suicide. 

‘Badly needed’ research

Carol McLaren, chief executive of RSABI, said: “Tragically, suicide continues to be responsible for the loss of too many lives in the agricultural community. This research will play a vital role in deepening our understanding of the factors behind suicide in farming and help shape the most effective prevention strategies.” 

Professor Rory O’Connor, former president of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with RSABI on this important project. For far too long, suicide risk in agricultural communities has not received the attention that it so badly needs.  

“Over the next three years, we hope to gain a better understanding of the specific factors associated with suicide risk, which will, in turn, inform suicide prevention efforts nationally and internationally.” 

The findings of the study will directly inform RSABI’s suicide prevention activities and wider mental health support work, helping to deliver more tailored services, targeted campaigns, and innovative tools to support those at risk and those affected by suicide, the charity confirmed. 

Get help

Applications are now being welcomed from individuals with a strong academic background in psychology, mental health, or related disciplines. Previous experience working in mental health-related research and/or practice as well as agricultural experience would be welcome.  

Those interested in applying or learning more about the project are encouraged to view details here.

RSABI is part of a community of organisations backing Scotland’s national suicide prevention campaign, which highlights the need to normalise talking about suicide and give people the confidence to have a conversation that might just save someone’s life.  

The launch of this study follows RSABI’s recent appointment of Josie Barclay in the charity’s newly created role of suicide prevention lead, with thanks to The Alistair and Margaret Miller Charitable Trust for the funding of this special role.  

In addition to overseeing the research project, the aim of Josie’s role is to maximise the opportunity for partnership working and collaboration with specialist organisations involved in suicide prevention, in line with the Scottish Government’s Prevention Strategy, Creating Hope Together. 

Alongside the campaign, a website with a range of information, resources and a local services directory is available at suicideprevention.scot.  

This work is led by Suicide Prevention Scotland, and RSABI is one of the community organisations working to deliver the Scottish Government and COSLA’s joint suicide prevention strategy, Creating Hope Together. 

RSABI’s free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls will not show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website. 

If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines: 

Samaritans: 116 123 (Available 24/7) 

Breathing Space: 0800 83 85 87 (Available Monday to Thursday 6pm to 2am. At weekends, open between Friday 6pm and Monday 6am) 

NHS 24 mental health hub on: 111 (Available 24/7) 

If you are ever in immediate danger or have the means to cause yourself harm, you should dial 999 and request an ambulance. 

Read more rural news. 

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Mr Stewart from Kelso in the Scottish Borders tragically took his life in June 2024 at the age of 60. Now, his wife Caroline and their three children, Victoria, Emily, and Charlie, along with family and friends, have come together to complete this endurance challenge.

They will attempt to walk the Kintyre Way, a 100-mile hike that winds its way through the Kintyre peninsula from Tarbert to Macrahanish in aid of RSABI.

The challenge, which is taking place between 2nd and 7th June, is set to take five and a half days.

The participants said: “We will base ourselves at or near Carradale and will be ferried to and from the walk daily.

“Anyone who knew Neil and who wishes to join the group for any of the stages or celebration at the end of the walk is very welcome to join, although they will have to make their own arrangements for accommodation and transport.”

READ MORE: ‘100 for One’ Kintyre Walk encourages farmers to #KeepTalking

‘100 for ONE’

Kintyre was special to Mr Stewart, as it is where his mother came from. He spent many childhood holidays there and continued to do so later with his own family, his wife Caroline and their three children, Victoria, Emily and Charlie.

Among many things, Mr Stewart loved cricket, and the name of the walk ‘100 for ONE’ refers to this, to the 100 miles attempted and the cause for which his family and friends hope to raise money.

The participants hope that their fundraising endeavours will also remind people how important it is to talk to someone if they are feeling overwhelmed and share how they are doing.

RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support, including counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry. Its free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls will not show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk.

Those in need of support or with concerns regarding a family member, colleague or friend can call YANA’s confidential helpline 0300 323 0400, email helpline@yanahelp.org or visit: https://www.yanahelp.org/.

There are many other organisations which can offer help, support and advice. If you have a question about mental health, you can contact the SAMH Information Service, open Monday to Friday, on 0344 800 0550 or visit its website at www.samh.org.uk.

If life is hard right now, Samaritans are here to listen – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org for more ways to speak to a Samaritan.

NHS Breathing Space phone service is available by calling 0800 838587. If you or someone else is in danger, call 999 or go to A&E; if you need urgent help for your mental health, call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk to get immediate advice on mental health symptoms.

Read more rural news.

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A spokesperson for Hawkstone said: “Farming is tough, but you’re not alone. Mental Health Innovations, with funding from the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust, is launching a dedicated online peer support network for farmers.”

Farmers have a chance to join 50 other colleagues in a year-long program to connect, share experiences, and receive practical advice and emotional support in a safe and understanding environment.

“Tackle loneliness and build resilience with those who know your world,” Hawkstone added.

Register your interest today at participation@mhiuk.org. Limited spaces available – email now to secure your spot.

Appear in Hawkstone commercial

The NFU Mutual Charitable Trust is an independent charity NFU Mutual set up in 1998 to support other charities and organisations working in the interests of agriculture, rural communities and the countryside.

Since it was first set up, the Trust has distributed donations totalling more than £9.7 million and made a positive difference to education, research, social welfare and poverty relief.

The brewery owned by TV presenter and Cotswolds farmer Jeremy Clarkson has recently been looking for farmers interested in appearing in a lager commercial.

Raw Research Casting revealed that it is looking for real farmers and farm industry workers who are strong singers to form a choir for a lager commercial filming in Oxfordshire on 12th May 2025 as well as for extras.

A spokesperson for the agency added: “Our farmer choir will be needed for a rehearsal / recording session on the 2nd of May, and filming on 12th of May, both in Oxfordshire.

“Must have some singing or choir experience / strong voices. Payment: £1,575 including travel.

“We are also looking for 30+ farmers / farm workers to be extras on the shoot day on May 12th – they don’t need to have the same singing talents – we can consider choir singers or shower singers. Payment: £200 for the day, including travel.”

The agency added that there may be some light swearing involved. Everyone must be 25 or older.

Those interested in taking part are asked to email casting@rawresearch.co.uk with ‘Beer Casting’ in the subject line for more information.

In 2024, Hawkstone was named Britain’s 24th largest private company in a Sunday Times’ survey.

Last year the brewery launched Hawkstone Harvest, a tribute to British harvest time.

READ MORE: Over 100 pubs across the UK will be pouring Jeremy Clarkson’s lager 

Read more rural news.

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Prince William got together with some of the Duchy of Cornwall’s young farmers to talk about their mental health and the challenges they are facing while working in the farming industry. 

The Prince of Wales told Sky News: “I think there’s a worry with everyone about where they see farming in 10 years’ time, and I always say, ‘don’t forget we always need a farmer three times a day: breakfast, dinner and tea’. 

“I’ve always said farmers are really good problem solvers. And yes, okay, they may solve the problem. But then at the end of the day, they take that on board themselves.  

“That’s where the stress comes from, and that’s why mental health issues occurs in the farming industry a lot. So it’s good to talk about it.” 

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Breaking the stigma around farmers’ mental health

Prince William has also announced the news that he has become the patron of We Are Farming Minds charity. 

He posted on social media: ‘Founded by Duchy of Cornwall tenants Sam and Emily Stables, this brilliant charity provides training, events, information, support and advice on mental health to farmers in Herefordshire and beyond. 

‘The link with We Are Farming Minds forms a crucial part of the Duchy’s rural mental health strategy, which aims to prioritise and destigmatise mental health support for farmers and tenants.  

‘With all the external pressured faced by farmers, it has never been more important to break the stigma and support better mental health. Thanks for hosting a great conversation, Vick Hope.’ 

The We Are Farming Minds team said that getting Prince William as the charity’s patron is a “massive step” for them. 

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While talking about farmers’ mental health, Clarkson’s Farm star, Kaleb Cooper, advised that farmers should spend more time talking to each other to get relief after dealing with problems on their farms. 

Charlie Ireland added: “Farmers have been very good at looking over the hedge, wondering what’s been going on, but actually there’s a real opportunity to knowledge-share and know that you’re not alone. Sharing knowledge makes it a lot easier to thrive.’ 

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‘Mind your language’

While talking to Kaleb, Prince William revealed that his son Prince George is a big fan of the Clarkson’s Farm show. 

Knowing about the visit, Prince George asked his father to tell Kaleb to “mind his language” while working on Jeremy Clarkson’s farm. 

According to BBC News, Kaleb responded: “I did get told off for swearing too much… I tried to stop, but at the same time, it’s awesome. That’s what I like about the whole show… I’ve had so many people thank me, going ‘you brought the family together’. It’s a great feeling.” 

At the end of 2024, Mr Clarkson announced that season five of Clarkson’s Farm is officially in production.

While talking to the media back in September, he also confirmed that they were likely to wrap up filming for season four “in a couple of weeks”.  

The material then needs to be edited and translated, so Clarkson’s Farm fans should be expecting the new season to come out around May 2025. 

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An Agrovista agronomist who was diagnosed with cancer in his tonsils after noticing a small lump in his neck has urged people working in the agricultural sector to act quickly should they notice a change in their health. 

Pete Waltham works for Agrovista on the Somerset Levels, advising on a mix of arable, forage and basket willow crops. 

In October 2024, he was diagnosed with head and neck cancer in his tonsils at the age of 42, after noticing a small lump in his neck in June. 

Pete learned about The Farming Community Network’s UK-wide partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, including the charity’s #NipItInTheBud campaign, following a presentation at an Agrovista internal conference. 

During the conference, the company shared information on the various initiatives planned under its #ForOurGrowers campaign. The campaign is Agrovista’s way of communicating support to growers, standing behind the industry, and celebrating the hard work of everyone involved in British farming. 

#NipItInTheBud 

The #NipItInTheBud campaign aims to raise awareness of cancer risks, signs and symptoms, and to encourage early detection. 

It is part of the Rural Communities Cancer Project between FCN and Macmillan Cancer Support, which is helping to improve the support available to those living with cancer in farming communities and rural areas and identify potential obstacles to accessing cancer care. 

Pete said: “In June 2024 I got home one day from a maize walk. After a busy day I sat down for a drink. I randomly remember feeling my neck and noticed a lump. I booked an appointment with a doctor the next day, to be on the safe side. 

“The first doctor I spoke to thought it was nothing to worry about – I recall them saying ‘there is no chance it’s cancer’. I guess at this point some people might accept it isn’t serious, ignore it and hope it’ll go away by itself. But I didn’t let it go. I felt very strongly that something was wrong, so I put my foot down. 

“Eventually after several attempts, I saw an excellent paramedic, who referred me for an ultrasound. This revealed a swollen lymph node. 10 days later I saw a doctor and had a biopsy, followed by a PET-CT scan and an MRI.  

“Once I was ‘in the system’ things moved very quickly. The tests discovered I had a localised tumour on my tonsils. I felt immense relief that it had not spread further.” 

Mental support 

Pete’s treatment involved six weeks of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The radiotherapy was five days a week, and the chemotherapy happened once a week. 

Pete said: “It was very grueling and time-consuming. When you’re in the thick of it, you have no time to think. I estimate I will have had over 78 appointments.  

“At first I almost had imposter syndrome, thinking I wasn’t actually that ill, and that I could continue working. But after a few weeks, it really hit me how sick I was. The treatment really does take it out of you. 

“Once the treatment finished and the number of appointments became less frequent, that’s when the mental health impact of what I had been through hit me.  

“I needed counselling and received support from Macmillan Cancer Support as well as support from resources at my local hospital. It has been very beneficial, helping me to understand and process what I have been through.” 

The support Pete received from family, friends, colleagues and clients has been a great help during his cancer treatment.  

He added: “Throughout I have had fantastic support from my employer. I can honestly say that Agrovista could not have been better. They have put resources in place to support me and have arranged for colleagues to cover my work while I have been ill. 

“I have also seen incredible support from my clients – a huge weight was lifted after I emailed them and let them know about my situation, and the responses that I received back were very supportive.”  

Pete recognises that the frequency of appointments and busy farming calendar could act as a deterrent for people seeking support. 

He said: “If you notice something or even just have a small suspicion something has changed, go to the doctor immediately. Do not wait. You may need to push back and put your foot down. Don’t give up if you feel like you aren’t making progress. 

“If you work within the agricultural community and find yourself faced with a diagnosis like mine, then it is imperative that you seek to organise cover for your work and take the time required to go to all treatment and consultant appoints.  

“You also need to take the time required to fully recover – it can take considerably longer than you might think.” 

Act quickly 

Alex Phillimore, head of communications and development at The Farming Community Network, said: “Throughout the Rural Communities Cancer Project, we have heard from people from across our farming and wider rural communities about some of the barriers that could be preventing them from accessing cancer support services. 

“This includes people working in the agricultural sector delaying treatment due to lambing or commenting that they will see a doctor when things get worse, assuming that the issue will go away by itself.  

“As Pete’s experience shows, you really do need to act quickly if you notice something has changed or doesn’t feel quite right. There will never be a convenient time, and you may have to make multiple attempts to get an appointment, but the sooner you are seen, diagnosed and treated, the sooner you can get back to the farm.” 

FCN is a voluntary organisation and charity that supports farmers and families within the farming community through difficult times. 

Founded in 1995, the charity has evolved from just responding to farmers in crisis to providing a more proactive service encouraging farmers to seek help before their situations worsen and helping them to manage change and plan ahead. 

FCN can help you or someone you know on 03000 111 999 (7am-11pm 365 days of the year) or email help@fcn.org.uk 

More information on can be found here: FCN and FarmWell 

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Mr Steward tragically took his life in June 2024 at the age of 60. Now, his wife Caroline and their three children, Victoria, Emily, and Charlie, along with family and friends, are preparing to come together almost exactly a year later to complete this endurance challenge.

Taking place from 2nd to 7th June 2025, the aim for the walk is to raise the profile of the work done by RSABI relating to mental health, including its 24-hour helpline 0808 1234 555 and free counselling support to help people get back on track, and to encourage farmers not to bottle things up.

The walkers have chosen to undertake their challenge in a part of western Scotland that held many fond memories for Mr Steward.

The group will follow the Kintyre Way, which winds its way through the Kintyre peninsula from Tarbert to Machrihanish. Mr Steward had a special connection to Kintyre, as it was where his mother came from, and he spent many childhood holidays there. Later in life, he continued to visit the area with his own family.

“100 for One”

Mr Steward’s family and friends hope that their fundraising endeavours will also remind people how important it is to talk to someone if they are feeling overwhelmed and share how they are feeling.

As well as farming, Mr Steward loved sport, so the walkers have decided to weave his passion for cricket into the title they have chosen for their fundraiser – “100 for One”.

This links to the 100-mile challenge to cricket, where scoring 100 is a milestone achievement. Their collective view is that if even just one person struggling with their mental health is helped by the initiative, it will have been a total success.

Those closest to the farmer want to ensure that other farmers do not suffer in silence and hope this challenge will help to raise awareness of the vital mental health support services available through RSABI.

Significant concern in the farming community

The charity offers free practical, financial, and emotional support, including counselling services, arranged simply and quickly after receiving the initial enquiry.

Carol McLaren, chief executive of RSABI, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Neil’s family and friends for undertaking this walk in his memory, which will help to raise awareness of the support available for farmers and others in Scottish agriculture who are struggling with their mental health.

“Sadly, suicide remains a significant concern in the farming community, and it is vital that people know they are never alone, and that support and help is available.

“We hope the challenge being undertaken by the Stewarts and friends will also help to share our #KeepTalking message, reminding people not to bottle things up and to look out for each other. RSABI is always here too – please don’t hesitate to call us on 0808 1234 555, any time of day or night.”

The charity is also very grateful to the Stewart family and friends for deciding to raise funds to help RSABI support farmers through its mental health and suicide prevention work.

Pauline Macmillan, head of fundraising, RSABI, added: “Our thanks go to the Stewart family and to all their friends who are taking part in, or supporting, the “100 For One” walk.

“By making a donation in support of the walkers, you will help RSABI to continue to provide vital support to those who need it most, and we are very grateful to everyone who chooses to contribute. Whatever the level of support, large or small, each and every donation is very much appreciated.”

To support the Stewarts, donations to RSABI can be made via JustGiving: Neil Thomson is fundraising for RSABI or to donate £20, text 100FORONE to 70450.

Given the location of the walk and to help with logistics, any friends of Mr Steward who would like to join the walkers to take part in a stint of the challenge should make their own travel and accommodation arrangements for whichever day they would like to join, and if anyone would like more information they can contact Pauline.macmillan@rsabi.org.uk

RSABI’s free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls will not show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website.

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