Scottish agricultural charity RSABI has announced the appointment of Susan Stewart as its new case officer to provide support across Central Scotland.
The charity, which provides financial, practical, and emotional support to those involved in Scottish agriculture, recruited for the new role in response to growing demand for the charity’s services.
With rising input costs, widespread concerns about the cost of living, and ongoing uncertainty surrounding the future of agricultural support, those working in the industry are under increasing pressure.
As a result, 90% of the RSABI welfare team’s time is dedicated to providing emotional and practical support.
Stewart grew up in the Perthshire farming community and joins RSABI with prior experience as a Triage & Community Link Officer with the National Road Victim Service.
There she conducted comprehensive trauma-informed assessments and provided essential support to those bereaved by road traffic incidents.
With a background in mental health nursing, she brings a wealth of experience in managing complex caseloads and delivering compassionate care to vulnerable individuals.
In her new position, Stewart will be instrumental in RSABI’s welfare team, delivering a wide range of services to support those involved in Scottish agriculture.
RSABI
She will be engaging with local organisations to promote the charity’s services and ensuring that the unique needs of the agricultural community in the region are met effectively.
Stewart’s impressive qualifications include a BSc in Mental Health Nursing from the University of Dundee and extensive training in trauma-informed practices, anxiety management, and child protection.
Stewart’s experience makes her well placed to support the high number of incoming enquires, and her appointment will be pivotal in helping RSABI’s welfare team meet the growing demand for its services.
“I am thrilled to be joining RSABI to contribute to the vital work of supporting the agricultural community.
“Having worked in various roles focused on mental health and community support, I understand the challenges faced by individuals in rural areas.
“I look forward to collaborating with the team to enhance the support available to farmers, crofters, and others in the industry,” Stewart said.
Chris McVey, welfare manager at RSABI, said: “Susan stood out as a candidate with her extensive experience in mental health work and her passion for supporting others.
“As we continue to see an increase in demand for our services, her skills will play a crucial role in helping us deliver the necessary support to those in need.”
