As we draw to the end of 2021, we may find ourselves preparing for a very different Christmas to that of last year. At YANA, we have been looking back over 2021 and taken time to reflect on the highs and lows this year has bought along.
The sum of so many steps
We started the year with some amazing people fundraising and awareness raising with the Fellaton and Walking4Norfolk teams. They all pushed themselves beyond what they thought they might need to do to complete these challenges.
Wheely good idea for promotion
Of course we can’t forget the Harrowden Turf lorry that took to the road with its YANA livery. It’s still very much on the road every day. With any luck you may see it making an appearance in 2022.
Great train of thought leadership
Summer saw YANA able to bring back its in person Mental Health First Aid training, a total of five courses have taken place this year. There are now 170 Mental Health First Aiders, trained with YANA, and working or living in the farming and rural business industries.
Help is a phonecall away
Our helpline has continued to be a vital support to those who use it, with an 80% increase in calls this year compared to 2020, and the free counselling is as much needed as ever before. We have seen increasing stress factors in the industry, piling on pressure and creating crises for some.
No show but not for long
Another year with no county shows led us to attend some smaller events and visit more groups to present and talk to. Planning has begun for the 2022 shows and, like you, we are all looking forward to getting back to the county showgrounds.
Sticker success
More and more people are Sticking Up For Better Rural Mental Health with our vehicle stickers. We continue to see YANA stickers go up in all sorts of vehicles, taking the message to people that YANA is by your side.
From one year to the next
YANA is busy, not getting ready for Christmas, but getting ready for the year ahead. We are preparing for our continued support to the farming and rural business community in East Anglia and Worcestershire .
Research reports have been released that highlight the struggles of the industry in relation to mental health. This highlights the need for YANA to continue to respond flexibly, ensuring we are serving the industry we exist to support.
It is with a huge thank you to everyone that has contributed to YANA, in so many different ways.
With your help we continue to reach more people, reduce stigma and encourage conversations about mental health. So thank you for being part of the solution and helping to create change.