As a Scottish charity dedicated to supporting farmers, crofters and others in land‑based industries, RSABI have been part of the agricultural community for more than a century. Today we catch up with Josie Barclay, RSABI’s newly appointed Suicide Prevention Lead to learn more about her role in the charity and what their Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training can offer the farming community in Scotland. She explains…
Josie Barclay, Suicide Prevention Lead RSABI
“Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is a two-day practical course that focuses on increasing people’s confidence in recognising when someone may be thinking of suicide, and most importantly, how to help. The course teaches attendees suicide first aid skills that can be used in all areas of life. Originally developed in the 1980’s by LivingWorks Education and ASIST, it is now widely delivered and evidence-based in the UK and across the world.
Having worked in social work and mental health care for nine years before joining RSABI, I can genuinely say this is one of the most impactful courses I have attended. I still remember my first training clearly. The confidence and practical tools I gained have stayed with me, both professionally and personally.
What I value most, whether I’m attending or delivering this course, are the conversations that happen in the room. People share experiences, worries, reflections, and real moments of learning. We learn so much from one another, simply by being open and sharing those two days together.
This is understandably an emotionally challenging course, but it is also extremely hopeful. There is something inspiring about spending time with people across Scottish agriculture who have chosen to give two days of their time to learn how they can help others.
Attendees from 2025 have described the course as “amazing training on a very important and challenging topic,” with another attendee saying it was “one of the best training courses I have attended.” Some have gone on to recommend this course with one saying they “would strongly advise it to anyone anywhere in the world,” reflecting the impact the course can have across different roles and experiences.
The course offers a clear structure to lean on so we ourselves feel less alone when supporting someone. It reminds us we don’t need to have all the answers or to be experts. What matters most is how we can show care, compassion and kindness – and most importantly, allow the conversation about suicide to happen which can help to save lives.
The course is free and available for those involved in Scottish agriculture, RSABI are very grateful to the Alastair and Margaret Miller Charitable Trust for supporting the Suicide Prevention work to enable this training to be delivered.
If you would like to know more, please get in touch –
CALL: 0131 364 4205
Email: mentalhealthtraining@rsabi.org.uk
Visit: www.rsabi.org.uk/asist/
