News

The Foundation has donated £20,000 to SAMH (Scottish Action For Mental Health), marking the conclusion of our season-long partnership working to improve mental health in Scotland.

Rangers players Ridvan Yilmaz, Rafael Fernandes and Aiden McCallion joined Foundation Chief Executive Connal Cochrane and SAMH’s Director of Fundraising and Major Appeal, Hazel McIlwraith, on the Ibrox pitch at half-time at Rangers game against Aberdeen on Sunday 11th May to make the presentation.

The donation will help SAMH end mental health waiting list challenges for tens of thousands of people across Scotland, thanks to a groundbreaking new initiative called The Nook. The project will revolutionise access to support by creating the nation’s first ever network of free walk-in mental health support hubs, giving people experiencing mental health problems a place to get help fast.

The largest mental health charity initiative in Scotland’s history, The Nook will provide barrier-free access to mental health support. There will be no need to book an appointment, no need for NHS referrals, and no waiting lists. Anyone looking for help can walk through the door whenever they need to.

The Foundation is proud to be sponsoring a space dedicated to children and young people within The Nook in Glasgow currently being created in the city centre.

The Rangers team also supported SAMH and highlighted Mental Health Awareness Month by wearing SAMH t-shirts during the warm-up, and the Foundation hosted a can collection and SAMH information stall prior to the match.

Hazel McIlwraith commented: “The partnership has meant so much to SAMH. It has given us a powerful opportunity to raise awareness of mental health problems.

“Working with the Foundation has given us access to a huge audience, allowing us to shine a light on the importance of accessible mental health services.

“A real highlight has been the overall passion and generosity of the Rangers community. It has been truly inspiring to see how much people care.”

Connal Cochrane added: “It’s really important to champion mental health – it affects all of us. It’s been great this season to be able to work with SAMH throughout the year to promote positive messaging around mental health.

“With the fans generous support, we’ve been able to make this significant donation to make a tangible difference to SAMH’s ‘The Nook’ project.”