A BRAND new initiative aimed at encouraging those working and living in the rural community help those in need has kicked off this week.

NFU Scotland and RSABI want people to post an easily-identifiable sticker with RSABI’s confidential helpline number somewhere prominent on their farm or croft, in the hope that someone will reach out and make the call when they need help, whether that be financial or emotional.

Last year, RSABI helped over 850 people and their families, and as farming and crofting continues to face challenging times, that is only set to rise. As such, those within the industry, no matter how small or large the problem is, whether that be financial pressures, work worries, stress, crisis, or anxiety, are being encouraged to pick up the phone to the helpline – 0300 111 4166 – which is open from 7am to 11pm, seven days a week.

NFUS president Andrew McCornick commented: “As an industry, we are renowned for bottling up our problems and just getting on with the job. However, we don’t realise the serious harm this is doing to both our mental and physical state, as well as the ongoing impact it can have on our families.

“As long-running supporters of RSABI, NFUS has teamed up with the agricultural charity to encourage you, and your family and workforce to seek the help you need.”

Welfare manager at RSABI, Mags Granger, added: “When you are having difficulties, talking to someone is the starting point for support and help. Often that is a stumbling block for those in farming and crofting. We are here to listen, support and empower farmers and crofters to get the help they need, all in complete confidence. As well as the emotional support, we are also able to provide financial support, where required.

“At RSABI we understand how interconnected the farm business and household are and when things go wrong, stress and pressure increases, which has a knock-on effect on farmers and their families in so many ways. It’s much better to get help early on before a problem becomes a crisis.”