The helpline is open from 7am to 11pm, seven days a week and can be called on 0300 111 4166
A new initiative has been launched for farmers and those living in the rural community to seek confidential help in their time of need.
NFU Scotland and rural-charity RSABI have joined forces to call on Scotland’s farmers and crofters to reach out and seek help.
A new initiative encourages those working and living in the rural community to post an easily-identifiable sticker with RSABI’s confidential helpline number somewhere prominent on the farm or croft in the hope that someone will reach out and make the call in their time of need, whether than be for financial or emotional support.
Last year, RSABI helped over 850 people and their families. The charity fears this number will rise due to the turbulent times the UK is going through.
Those within the industry, whether it is financial pressure, 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.
'Bottling it up'
President of NFU Scotland Andrew McCornick said those in the farming industry are renowned for bottling up 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,” he said.
“As long-running supporters of RSABI, NFU Scotland has teamed up with the agricultural charity to encourage you, and your family and workforce to seek the help you need.”
Mags Granger, Welfare Manager at RSABI commented: “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.”