HEALTH AND wellbeing checks will be available to farmers and rural workers visiting Orkney Mart on two specially arranged dates in December.

Aimed at busy country folk who can't always make time to attend appointments, the 'Well Programme' health checks, organised by NFU Scotland’s Orkney Region and NHS Orkney, will be available at the mart on Monday December 2 and Monday December 16.

Preparation for this special clinic involves having a set appointment time and a completed 'Wellbeing Tool' – a questionnaire which participants should complete and return prior to their appointment in order that it can be assessed and then discussed. The appointments can take up to one hour.

NFUS regional policy advisor Kerry Omand Kerry Omand said: “I’m delighted that NHS Orkney have agreed to come to the mart to complete these appointments and would like to thank the team for making this happen.

“I know that it has been successful in the past and that farmers can often struggle to make the time to attend appointments. I’m hoping that by bringing the clinic in to a more relaxed setting like the mart that farmers can feel that they can come along. I would also like to thank Orkney Auction Mart for providing the venue.”

NHS Orkney’s Sara Murray added: “I was delighted to hear from Kerry and her interest in bringing the Well Programme to the mart. I have provided clinics throughout various organisations in Orkney and they have been very well attended. I feel that they appeal to a wider demographic than those that would attend their GP.

“The health check covers many aspects of your health and wellbeing and is an opportunity for anyone to discuss any concerns they may have.”

Anyone interested in booking an appointment can contact Linda Sutherland at NHS Orkney’s Public Health Department on linda.sutherland2@nhs.net or 01856 888084.