November 2023 - Nov 7, 2023
As I write this message, we are experiencing more rain in North Yorkshire, but have escaped the floods which others have been suffering. Shoots are well underway, and the Red Deer Hind season has commenced. The work goes on whatever the weather as usual doesn’t it, but we especially feel for those who have flooded homes not to mention just getting about safely.
We have just returned from a Ladies Hind course and visit to the Borders College to explain our Student Support Programme with others planned at the end of the month. Health Checks were carried out by Becky at both venues and will be repeated as and when we are invited or plan. The end of the month was also marked by an excellent meeting organised by BASC. It is good to see a full room of people enjoying meeting friends and colleagues and talking through common themes. There is certainly much to discuss these days.
Our survey to the partners of keepers/stalkers and ghillies has revealed some interesting facts and comments. We thank everyone taking part and appreciate their input.
There are a few comments which require clarification and one which caused some concern to those of us on the front line, taking calls on Jamies’ Helpline and elsewhere. This was on the subject of Trust and Confidentiality.
For both requesting support and asking a query whatever it is, your call is confidential and won’t be repeated to anyone. Confidential means we don’t discuss with anyone else – it is between two people on the phone/email or online, whether it is a health concern discussed with our Nurse team or with ourselves on Jamies’ Helpline whatever the query is concerning. Please trust us to look after you and your confidences whatever they may be. Applications for financial support are considered by the Trustees but conversation and support, is not discussed with anyone but the person on the end of the phone or line.
We wish to thank everyone undertaking fundraising on our behalf; in shoot rooms, running, Movember challenges and much more. We are touched and appreciative of every penny.
What does this enable us to do?
Expand our health services, provide grant aid to individuals and families, information to keepers and support to partners both through information packs, keeping in touch and providing help for health issues and in financial hardship – whether long term or a temporary glitch. We have all been there and understand how worrying it can be especially at this time of year.
Never hesitate to contact us at any time – we are here to help. It’s all part of being the wider gamekeeping family.
Being there in times of strife – it does not need to be a crisis, just a chat when needed can head off greater problems coming up the track.
Finally thank you again for helping us to “Check in with a Mate”.
