Thousands of pounds has been raised by local entrepreneurs to help fund critical mental health aid in Scotland.
Through a collaborative effort between Perth’s BNI Chapter (The Fair City) and SAMH (The Scottish Association for Mental Health), £6000 was donated to helping people throughout Scotland who may be struggling with their mental health.
Organisers explained that, in a time where wellbeing is a vital part of not only the workplace but the surrounding community, a fundraising effort was put into place in order to give back in a period of need.
Held at Perth’s Black Watch Castle and Museum, the event comprised of a drinks reception, three-course dinner, charity auction and ended with a ceilidh.
Music was provided by one of BNI Perth’s own members, Wayne Robertson, of YOPA Real Estate.
The evening was a “huge success, enjoyed by all” and “helped invigorate a passion for philanthropy” in all that attended.
Andrew Stewart, owner of AS Wealth Management in Perth and previous chairman of The Fair City BNI Chapter, was the lead organiser of the event.
He said: “BNI Perth is made up of many business owners that are interwoven into the business fabric of Perth.
“We regularly make a conscious effort to support charity and fundraise wherever possible as we want to give back to our surrounding community that has supported us on our own journeys which are varied and vast.
“We felt that mental health awareness was an extremely worthwhile and important cause to support due to how prevalent the issue is within not only our community but throughout Scotland.
“SAMH do incredible work in providing support and care to those facing mental health challenges. ”
SAMH have been providing care and support with mental health for over a century to people in Scotland.
Robin Holden, corporate partnerships fundraiser at SAMH, said “Our mental health and wellbeing is so important, poor mental health can have the most profound impact on our relationships, our work, our wellbeing and quality of life.
“SAMH wants a kinder, fairer society which provides better support for people with mental health problems.
“Through the support of local businesses and organisations like BNI Perth, SAMH will achieve this through our response to the coronavirus pandemic and our work in suicide prevention, our programmes working with young people in schools and colleges, our men’s mental health projects and through our trusted information and support services.
“Six thousand pounds is an incredible sum to have raised from a single event. It really will make such a difference and benefit a number of people right across Scotland.”
The Fair City BNI Chapter is comprised of 30 different business owners based in Perth and the surrounding area.
Fair City BNI offers an opportunity to network and share business within the community through the philosophy of giving.
The chapter currently has availability for new members and those who are interested in joining are invited to contact chairman John Ross of John Ross Smart Living on connect@jrsmartliving.co.uk
