Vice Lord Lieutenant Malcolm Taylor welcomes Prince William to Angus for Rural Mental Health Talks

Bell Ingram’s Senior Partner, Malcolm Taylor, had the honour of welcoming His Royal Highness Prince William to Angus this week, in a visit that reinforced the Prince’s deep commitment to supporting mental health within rural communities.

The visit was part of a wider initiative aimed at addressing mental health challenges in the farming sector. Over the course of the day, the Prince visited several key locations, including the Men’s Shed in Carnoustie, where he met members and learned about the invaluable role the organisation plays in combating loneliness and isolation among older men. He also saw first-hand the devastation caused by Storm Ewoyn at a nearby strawberry farm and engaged in meaningful discussions with young farmers about the support available to them. Topics ranged from mental well-being to the positive role social media can play in strengthening community ties.

Malcolm, who was appointed Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Angus shortly before the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla in May 2023, has served the county for over a decade as a Deputy Lord-Lieutenant. His appointment is a reflection of his dedication to the local community and his deep understanding of both the challenges and opportunities facing rural Angus.

During the visit, the Duke of Rothesay – as Prince William is known in Scotland – demonstrated a genuine and informed interest in the issues being discussed. Malcolm observed that the Prince was “extremely engaged, asking searching and intelligent questions”, keen to gain a thorough understanding of the efforts being undertaken by local organisations to support those working and living in rural areas.

Mental health awareness in rural communities is a cause that Bell Ingram is proud to champion. As a corporate supporter of RSABI, the charity dedicated to helping farmers and those in the agricultural sector facing hardship, the company is committed to breaking down barriers around mental health discussions. The importance of this cause was further highlighted in 2023 when the Duchy of Cornwall, under Prince William’s leadership, launched a dedicated mental health strategy for Duchy tenants, prioritising well-being and encouraging open conversations about mental health.

At a roundtable event hosted by the Farm Safety Foundation, the Prince spoke about the need to remove “taboos and stigmas around mental health” – a message that resonated deeply with Malcolm and others in attendance. The visit reaffirmed the collective effort being made by local authorities, charities, and businesses to ensure those in rural communities receive the support they need.

Reflecting on the day, Malcolm underscored the significance of the Prince’s involvement, stating that his presence and thoughtful approach have further strengthened ongoing initiatives to improve mental health support in Angus.

Bell Ingram remains steadfast in its commitment to the well-being of rural communities. Under Malcolm Taylor’s leadership, both in his role as Vice Lord-Lieutenant and within the company as Senior Partner, Bell Ingram will continue to support initiatives that foster resilience, awareness, and lasting change for those living and working in Scotland’s countryside.