Border farmer Neil Stewart pictured on-farm. Carol McLaren, chief executive of RSABI, said: "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."
A Scottish farming family will undertake an emotional long-distance walk to remember a father and husband who took his own life.
Borders farmer Neil Stewart died in June 2024 at the age of 60.
His wife, Caroline, and three children, Victoria, Emily and Charlie, have confirmed they will undertake a 100 mile walk over five days later this year to raise awareness of mental health in farming on behalf of RSABI.
They have set a target to fundraise £10,000 for the charity.
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The family, joined alongside those who knew Mr Stewart well, will walk through the Kintyre peninsula from Tarbert to Machrihanish.
Kintrye held special memories for Mr Stewart, it was where his mother came from and was a place where he spent many a holiday over the years.
Mental health
By taking on the challenge, the Stewart family hope it will remind people how important it is for farmers to talk to someone if they are feeling overwhelmed and that they do not suffer in silence with their mental health.
They also hope to raise awareness of the vital mental health support services available through farming charity RSABI.
Alongside his love for farming, Mr Stewart also loved sport.
The idea for the 100 mile walk came from his passion for cricket, where scoring 100 is viewed as a milestone achievement.
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.
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"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 do not 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 at RSABI, said: "Our thanks go to the Stewart family and to all their friends who are taking part in, or supporting, the '100 For One' walk.
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"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."
The Stewart's will take on the challenge between June 2 and 7.
RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support including counselling services, arranged simply and quickly after receiving the initial enquiry.
They provide a 24 hour helpline, 0808 1234 555, and free counselling support for farmers.
You can donate to the Scottish farming family's fundraiser here.
Mental health support services
Samaritans - 116 123
Farming Community Network - 03000 111 999
PAPYRUS - 0800 068 4141
Talk to Frank - 03001236600
SHOUT - 85258
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