Pig farming families have been reminded about the wide range of support available for them at this extremely difficult time for many.
The NPA’s Pig Industry Group, made up of producers and allied industry members, highlighted the need for all parts of the industry to look out for each other and to ensure producers know where they can go for more help if needed.
Highlighting the huge uncertainty caused by the recent wave of contract cuts, one allied member said: “We need to look after producers’ mental health at this time. Some producers are completely overwhelmed by the situation, and they are feeling a huge lack of control,” one allied member said.
NPA chief executive Lizzie Wilson said the association will be raising the ‘dire situation’ with charities like the Farming Community Network to alert them to the extra support that will be required. She urged any producers who are struggling to contact the various organisations out there who offer a range of support.
Confidential support
FCN volunteers are available 365 days of the year to listen, support and ‘walk with you’, your family and your farm business through any issues, whether personal or business related. FCN is taking a proactive approach to supporting farmers’ health, wellbeing and resilience.
“Through our FarmWell website, community events, research, partnership work and other activities, we are working hard to create networks of support and to help farmers,” said Alex Phillimore, head of operations and communications.
“Each year, we help hundreds of farmers and their families and have been called a ‘lifeline’ by those we have supported. Please do continue to take care of yourselves and those around you during this challenging time.”
If your problems require more professional help, FCN knows people who may be able to help you. “Everything is confidential, and we will be there for you. FCN volunteers understand farming life and its unique pressures, and are here to listen and support,” Alex said.
Support in Scotland
With many Scottish pig farming families now facing incredibly difficult decisions about the future viability of their businesses, RSABI is highlighting the practical, emotional and financial support it offers to people in Scottish agriculture. This includes those currently or previously working in farming and their dependents.
The charity’s support includes a free 24/7 helpline and web chat, access to counselling, help with essential household costs, and guidance on issues such as benefits, debt and employment.
“If you are struggling and feeling overwhelmed, please talk to someone and remember RSABI is here for you too, and the sooner you reach out to us the sooner we can start to help,” said Carol McLaren, the charity’s chief executive.
Aberdeenshire pig farmer Danny Skinner, said: “I would urge anyone struggling to cope to remember there is also help available at any time of night or day from RSABI.”
Farm support
The Farming Community Network (FCN)
Website: www.fcn.org.uk
Email: help@fcn.org.uk
Phone: 03000 111 999
You Are Not Alone (YANA)
Website: www.yanahelp.org
Includes national directory of rural support groups
Email: helpline@yanahelp.org
Phone: 0300 323 0400
Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI)
Website: www.rabi.org.uk
Email: help@rabi.org.uk
Phone: 0808 281 9490
Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RSABI)
Website: www.rsabi.org.uk
Email: helpline@rsabi.org.uk
Phone: 0808 1234 555
Samaritans
Website: www.samaritans.org
Phone: 116 123
Mind
Website: www.mind.org.uk
Phone: 0300 123 3393