Tuesday 18 05 2021
Former Scotland striker Kris Boyd joined University of the West of Scotland (UWS) staff and students to open up a conversation on mental health and wellbeing.
He spoke in depth about the work of The Kris Boyd Charity, set up following the tragic passing of his younger brother, Scott, and encouraged attendees not to be afraid to reach out if they are in need of support, or to others who may be struggling.
Kris Boyd said: “I am delighted to have had the opportunity to speak with the staff and students of UWS, about a subject which means a great deal to me.
“The audience was very engaged, which is hugely encouraging. It’s important to create an environment where people feel comfortable discussing mental health, and their own situation. Once we do this, then we will make a difference.
“It is also important to ensure that people are aware of the support that is available, whether this be with support agencies, family, or friends.”
Kris was joined by John McTaggart, Curriculum Manager at Ayrshire College; and Mary McClung from the charity, who discussed the important work they do, the award-winning #PassingPositivity campaign, and a charity single featuring Britain’s Got Talent winner Jai McDowall.
“We are very much looking forward to working with Kris and Ayrshire College going forward, to explore how we can embed the excellent #PassingPositivity approach within UWS.”Marla Baird, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Adviser, UWS
Marla Baird, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Adviser at UWS, said: “We are very grateful to Kris for taking the time to participate in this event, and talk about a subject that I know is very close to his heart.
“We are very much looking forward to working with Kris and Ayrshire College going forward, to explore how we can embed the excellent #PassingPositivity approach within UWS.”
The event is part of a wider programme, designed to support student and staff wellbeing, and follows the recent creation of Head On, a staff network aimed at tackling the stigma of mental health in men.
Head On adds to well-established support networks at the University including UWS Liberty, UWS HigHER women’s network, BME Staff Network and the Disability staff network.