FCN provides pastoral and practical support to farming people during periods of anxiety and stress. Much of this work goes on quietly and with little recognition but its value cannot be over-estimated.
The health, families, future and even the lives of many people are intact because of the care, support and friendship they have received from an FCN volunteer. Click here to read how FCN has made a difference to people’s lives
What are the problems?
Farming has always involved a degree of stress. But in recent years the pressures have snowballed, many are now suffering severe strain and anxiety and clinical depression is not uncommon.
Financial pressure leading to overwork and strained family relationships and increased regulation and ‘red-tape’ are two of the biggest issues we see.
In addition, isolation is perhaps the biggest danger, as farming becomes an increasingly solitary occupation with less social interaction and sense of community than ever before.
For many farming is more than just a job. It is also a lifestyle; the farm is their home, their work and often their identity too. Many farming families have built their farm over generations, with expectations for future generations. This can be positive, but in difficult times it can cause additional pressures.
How does FCN help?
Helpline
FCN runs a national confidential helpline from 7am to 11pm every day of the year, staffed by a team of volunteers. Talking with someone who understands farming but is not directly involved in their situation can be a real support and, when appropriate, callers are offered a visit from an FCN volunteer.
Individual Support
FCN volunteers ‘walk with’ people through their problems so they don’t have to face them on their own. They continue their support for as long as it is needed – this can often be for many months.
Sometimes people just need someone to talk to. However, in many cases there are practical ways to improve the circumstances the farmer and their family is facing. FCN has links with sources of professional advice, help and expertise which can be brought in as appropriate. Practical help and support is offered, but never forced on people. FCN’s primary objective is to encourage and empower people to make their own decisions and regain their sense of value, purpose and direction.
This service is confidential and free of charge.
Research and Persuasion
When FCN volunteers find a common issue which is causing problems to many farming families, we carry out research to demonstrate its impact. The research is used to influence appropriate institutions to try and resolve the issue.
Two recent reports are:
Stress and Loss – The impact of bovine TB on farming families
The impact of farm inspections on farmers in Wales Note file size is 1.14MB.
Support Network
FCN is part of the Farming Help group of national charities working in the farming community, together providing a wide range of complementary support. FCN also works with and alongside many other organisations in order to source and provide the best available help in every individual situation. This includes professional advice and support where appropriate.
