Remote & Rural Campaign Springs Into Action
Spring 2008 sees Breathing Space embark on a series of awareness raising initiatives aimed at reaching some of the more isolated communities in remote & rural areas across Scotland.
The remote & rural campaign will consist of a local radio and press advertising campaign and a series of events in rural and island communities with a particular focus on Orkney, Shetland and the Westerns Isles.
Tony McLaren, National Coordinator explains “This campaign will coincide with the end of long dark winter months which can be an especially difficult time for people in the northern reaches of Scotland and the outlying isles and for those experiencing the effects of seasonal affective disorder.
“For many people, the phone is the preferred option to talk about their problems and difficulties as it is anonymous and confidential, perhaps especially for men and particularly where people live in very close knit communities.
“People can be reluctant to say that they are depressed but contacting a service such as Breathing Space is an important first step particularly for those living on the outlying isles where local land based support networks cannot be easily reached.”
Highlands and Islands MSP Mary Scanlon welcome the Breathing Space and NHS 24 partnership and the forthcoming Remote & Rural campaign:
“I am very impressed at the commitment and professionalism of NHS 24 and Breathing Space and very much welcome the Remote & Rural Campaign to the Highlands and Islands.
“When living in rural areas, the close nature of family and life long friends can make talking about issues such as mental health extremely inhibiting and embarrassing. This wonderful initiative gives people in the Highlands and Islands access to vital support 24 hours a day irrespective of location and within a safe environment for people to talk privately, confidentially and honestly about the mental health problems they or their loved ones are experiencing.”
If you’d like to find out more about Breathing Space Remote & Rural activity contact info@breathingspacescotland.co.uk
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