Rural Payments and Services

Farm Safety Week not only encourages people in the industry to think about physical safety, but also the importance of looking after the mental wellbeing of themselves, their colleagues, families and friends.

RSABI provides emotional, practical and financial support to people in Scottish agriculture. In support of Farm Safety Week, Norette Ferns from RSABI talked to Rural Matters about the success of their #KeepTalking campaign, and the support RSABI can offer to those in need.

“Talking to people is always important to our mental wellbeing, but this year with the added impact of COVID-19 restrictions and lockdown there was potential for people to feel more isolated”, Norette said.

“The main aim of the #KeepTalking campaign was to encourage people in agriculture to take the time to pick up the phone, or chat online, to friends, family and neighbours.

“It’s not always easy to talk about our problems, or how we’re feeling, but it’s important not to bottle things up. Talking to someone is always better – whether that’s speaking to a friend or family member or giving RSABI a call.”

The #KeepTalking campaign was highlighted on TV and radio, reaching over 600,000 people on social media alone. It was well supported through the agricultural community, including by farmer and comedian Jim Smith, who fronted the campaign and 12 auctioneer ambassadors and a host of partner organisations.

“We hope that the campaign has encouraged some people to open up about how they’re feeling, talk about problems they’re facing and keep talking”, said Norette.

One of RSABI’s clients described the help offered and how much better they now feel:

“I was suffering from stress, unable to sleep and really worried about our situation. I didn’t know where to turn until I saw an advert for RSABI. Their help made such a difference and we are now in a much better place. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend RSABI to anyone who needs help and it’s great that they were there when we needed them.”

If you’re stressed or something’s worrying you please give RSABI a call on 0300 111 4166. The helpline is open every day from 7am to 11pm, and calls are answered in confidence.