I’ve decided to take on the Defy the Odds Bear Grills challenge in support of  Mental Health UK (https://mentalhealth-uk.org/helping-communities/) as I can see first-hand in my role as an Agricultural Relationship Manager how young farmers are struggling with mental health issues

 It is extremely concerning that more than one farmer a week takes their own life in the UK. We need to get as many people as possible talking about their problems and opening up to friends, colleagues and neighbours so that we avoid these crisis situations. If we saw somebody with a broken arm then we would ask them how they were feeling – but often because of the stigma we are often reluctant to ask people about their mental health – even when there are visible signs of stress and anxiety.

 Taking small steps such as checking in on someone or providing a listening ear can be a lifeline for someone who is experiencing difficulties & very often isolated in rural parts of the country.

 Stress is something that many farmers face at some point and is an important contributor to mental health problems. It can come from many sources such as financial pressures resulting from market fluctuations, livestock disease or poor harvests, but concerns about Brexit & CV19, policies, administration and legislation can also take their toll.

 In support of Mental Health UK (https://mentalhealth-uk.org/helping-communities/) & for the ‘privilege’ of undergoing an arduous 5 day Bear Grills challenge in the Highlands of Scotland I have pledged to fundraise over £4,000. 

 The Bear Grills challenge is an intensive 5 Day survival expedition in the Highlands of Scotland where I will be taught by Bear’s team of instructors to learn all of the necessary skills for my survival challenge including rope rappelling/traversing/climbing, shelter building, fire lighting, water purification, trapping, fishing, foraging and Astro navigation. 

The final challenge will test me to the limit both physically and mentally as I’m dropped into the wilderness (with no instructors) to battle tiredness, hunger, the weather and the unforgiving Scottish Highlands to make sure I survive, summit a mountain range and (hopefully) self-rescue.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Diolch/thanks for taking the time to read my story

Alan