A mental health organisation is kicking off its centenary celebrations in Renfrewshire.

SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health) is hosting 100 colleagues and supporters at the historic Paisley Abbey today.

Guests will hear directly from people who have benefitted from SAMH services and celebrate the charity's achievements with contributions from staff and its ambassador Sir Chris Hoy.

SAMH traces its roots back to 1923 and the pioneering work of Dr Kate Fraser CBE, a Paisley psychiatrist who dedicated her life to improving the conditions and treatment of people with mental health problems.

The charity has since grown to employ around 550 staff and operate more than 70 services in communities across Scotland, spanning employment, horticulture, supported accommodation, peer support, suicide prevention and more. In 2022, SAMH supported almost 25,000 people with their mental health and wellbeing.

SAMH is also encouraging people across Renfrewshire to join its centenary celebrations and make this the year to do something for Scotland’s mental health. 

Its centenary hub has suggestions from hosting get togethers and participating in fundraisers to joining the campaign for better mental health and making time for your own wellbeing.

The organisation will host two public lectures focused on key strategic priorities this year with the first, dedicated to suicide prevention, taking place in May.

Billy Watson, chief executive of SAMH, said: "We are so proud that for 100 years SAMH has been here for Scotland’s mental health. With heartfelt thanks for the enduring contribution from colleagues, campaigners, fundraisers, partners and supporters, we can celebrate this milestone and use it as a catalyst to make our mental health a national priority and drive further positive change.

"Thankfully, society has come a long way since SAMH first formed all those years ago – but there is so much left to do. The primary focus in our centenary year, outlined in our We Won’t Wait strategy, is on transformational change to help people and communities access the support they need, the first time they ask. 

"A century on, SAMH keeps Dr Fraser’s vision alive every day and we will continue to play our part in supporting the mental health of the nation."

For more information on how to get involved in the centenary celebrations, visit www.samh.org.uk/about-us/centenary.