November 2024 SRITC Virtual Cafe: BYOC

A highlight of the event will be a segment led by Change Mental Health, addressing the barriers rural communities face in accessing mental health support. Discussions will focus on geographic isolation, transport inequality, and mental health stigma. Additionally, Ian Graham, National Distress Brief Intervention (DBI) Project Lead, will share insights into the DBI programme, including a case study that demonstrates how targeted mental health support can make a real difference. Finally, we will hear from Jaap Hatenboer, Innovation Advisor at University Medical Center Groningen (Ambulance Service), who will speak about the future of supporting island and rural communities in the Netherlands from a healthcare system perspective.

The session will also introduce Rural Connection, a fully funded training programme designed to help small businesses and community groups in rural areas support mental health and wellbeing. This initiative equips communities with practical tools to foster wellbeing in workplaces and beyond.

This Virtual Cafe promises to be a valuable opportunity for connection, shared learning, and exploration of solutions to support Scotland’s rural wellbeing and transport needs. Don’t miss out on this chance to engage with like-minded individuals and work towards impactful changes in rural health and transport accessibility.

As always, there will be plenty of time after the presentations for Q&A and an opportunity to share your experiences and stories of living, working and supporting the travel needs of your community.

Remember BYOC means Bring Your Own Cake so get baking (or buying) so you can share your photos and create “cake envy".

FAQs

How do I access the Virtual Cafe?

Joining instructions including a Zoom meeting weblink will be emailed to after you've registered. Reminder emails sent 48, 24 and 2 hours before the event will also contain the Zoom link.

All you need to do is click on the link and, if prompted, enter the security password that will be included in the email. 

What technology will I need to join the Virtual Cafe?

All you need is a PC/Laptop with a microphone and internet connection. If you have a headset please connect that to your computer to ensure that you can be heard clearly if you want to ask questions during the event.  

Do I need to have a Webcam to join the Virtual Cafe?

No. While most computers have webcams, it’s not mandatory that you use it during the virtual Cafe.

Can I join by phone? 

Yes you can join using a landline or mobile phone. Access phone numbers will be included in your registration confirmation email.

Can I promote the event on social media?

You certainly can. Please use the handle #WeAreSRITC and #SRITC2024 on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

If you have any questions ahead of the event feel free to emai This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

If it helps and you aren’t used to using the link through Zoom, then let us know and we can buddy you up. Zoom doesn’t take much broadband compared to Skype but if internet connection is going to be a problem let us know.