They call themselves the Steely Striders — and on Sunday 1st June, under sun, rain, and even a near-miss with hail, ten members of KR Group Scotland’s extended team walked 18 miles across Aberdeenshire for a cause close to home.
The company — a specialist in steel fabrication, cladding, and project management services — took part in the Aberdeen Kiltwalk 2025, raising £1,855 for Men in Mind, a local mental health charity offering peer support groups across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
This effort brings KR Group Scotland’s 2025 fundraising total to nearly £4,000 — a sum that speaks volumes about the company’s deep-rooted commitment to the communities it serves.
Bellfield to Duthie — With a Lot of Weather in Between
The Kiltwalk route started at Bellfield Park, Banchory, and finished at Duthie Park in Aberdeen, stretching through scenic countryside and urban streets. But while the Scottish weather tested their spirit — delivering bursts of sunshine punctuated by lightning and hail — the team crossed the finish line just in time.
“It was a real test of endurance,” laughed Karen McAra, HR Business Partner at KR Group. “But we loved every minute of it. There’s something special about coming together like this — supporting a brilliant cause while having a proper laugh and making memories.”
“Men in Mind” — A Cause That Strikes a Chord
The chosen charity, Men in Mind, provides in-person, peer-to-peer support for men, helping break the stigma around mental health, particularly in more rural or traditional communities where men may feel less comfortable opening up.
“At KR Group, we’re proud to be part of the North East Scotland community,” McAra added. “And we believe it’s important to give back in ways that genuinely make a difference.”
Men in Mind’s work resonates in industries like construction and engineering — sectors where mental health challenges are common, but often under-discussed.
Building More Than Structures
Headquartered in Aberdeenshire and operating UK-wide, KR Group Scotland is known for its expertise in commercial, agricultural, and industrial projects. But behind the hard hats and high-vis jackets lies a company culture grounded in people-first values.
KR Group’s community ethos is not a one-off. Past fundraising efforts have included:
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A lively bingo night at Ashvale Chipper, Aberdeen;
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A competitive five-a-side tournament at Strikers Indoor Football, Bridge of Don;
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And more to come — with a charity pub quiz planned for October 2025.
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“It’s not just about the money,” said Jayne Simpson, Finance Manager and one of the Kiltwalkers. “It’s about showing up, getting involved, and making space for conversations that matter — even the difficult ones.”
More Than Just a Day Out
Photos from the day show team members, families, and friends in tartan, walking boots, and kilts — united not by job titles, but by shared purpose. Among them were Lauren Moroney, Amy Buchan, and former colleague Caitlin Bremner — a sign that KR Group’s community spirit stretches beyond employment contracts.
As McAra put it:
“Mental health doesn’t clock out at 5pm. Supporting each other — as colleagues, neighbours, and human beings — is something we carry into every part of our work.”
