Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust: young talent and new initiatives for the good of the countryside

The Gamekeepers’ Welfare Trust’s (GWT) raison d’être is supporting gamekeepers, stalkers and gillies, and their dependents, past and present. The Countryside Alliance fully supports all of their laudable work. Two recent updates from the GWT are a new initiative to support carers across the rural community, and the announcement of the GWT Young Gamekeeper of the Year. 

On October 12, Sir Johnny Scott, Honorary President of the GWT, presented 15 year-old Aulie Swires with the Game & Country sponsored award for GWT Young Gamekeeper of the Year 2024 (pictured). Aulie has spent time with his grandfather and uncle, Des and David Coates, on Grinton Moor since he was able to walk. He has taken part in all aspects of running a grouse moor, and it is on such moors that he prefers to spend his spare time. Beyond Grinton, Aulie has ventured to estates further afield with his grandfather to learn more about both grouse and pheasant. 

Aulie’s grandmother, Ann, nominated him for the award and told the GWT that gamekeeping is “in his blood”. The family hopes that he will become their fourth generation of gamekeeper, with prospect of an apprenticeship on a neighbouring estate in 2025. GWT CEO Helen MJ Benson described Aulie as having a “keen, practical interest in, and understanding of management and conservation in our heather uplands”.

Roger Seddon, Shooting Campaign Manager for the Countryside Alliance said:

“The next generation of gamekeepers will underpin all of the fantastic conservation work and community spirit that shooting brings, it is heartening to see in Aulie such passion for that which we love, he is a worthy winner.” 

In a second update, the GWT’s dedicated team of Tealight Nurses will be expanding and will now be alongside carers in rural communities, offering practical advice on medical concerns or just a friendly ear by phone, text or messaging service. This will add a beacon of light to individual lives and homes, where the unsung heroes that are carers, have to manage their daily lives, work and  other commitments alongside their care giving. 

Becky King (pictured), Community Nurse and co-founder of the Health and Wellbeing team of GWT nurses said:

“We are so excited to be able to support carers in our rural community. We understand how isolated and lonely it can be. To be able to offer practical and emotional support will be an absolute lifeline to many people caring for loved ones.”

For free, confidential help and support from a Tealight Nurse, please call the GWT Health Team on 0300 011 0018 or email help@thegamekeeperswelfaretrust.com