Farmers Supporting Farmers

Farming can be stressful but Rural Support Trust is here to help.

Rural Support Trust is a nationwide network offering free and confidential support to those who earn their income from the land . Support is available to the business owner(s), as well as full-time and part-time workers . Each of the 14 Rural Support Regions has a dedicated team with a range of experiences . When someone contacts Rural Support for assistance they will talk with someone who has a good understanding of farming life . If ongoing support is required, a suitable facilitator will be agreed upon . Support can be face to face or over the phone . A facilitator can travel to where they are needed, at a time a that suits . The RST (Rural Support Trust) team have a good understanding of the primary sector; many are or have had active roles in the sector so they really appreciate how challenging it can be at times .

How do you get in touch?

Asking for help is never easy, but Rural Support wants to make it as easy as possible . Get in touch by calling 0800 787 254 (0800 RURAL HELP) to connect with a rural Co-Ordinator .

Contact can also be made via their social media platforms or the website www.rural-support.org.nz Rural Support will give you a call back at a time that suits .

What can Rural Support do?

RST understands that every situation is different, so Rural Support are available to walk alongside someone and help put an individualised plan together to get the support needed to help with whatever is causing you pressure . This may be simply by listening, having a cuppa and a chat, or it may involve pulling in extra professional support to help . Whether it be an on-farm issue or a personal matter, whatever is causing stress, the important thing to remember is that Rural Support are only a phone call away and if they cannot help, they can offer direction to someone who can .

What else does Rural Support do?

Rural Support Trusts also run free wellbeing events across the Country . So, to keep up to date with their news keep an eye on their website or social media pages . These events vary, but often include Rural BBQs, dinners, or other off farm activities . Rural Support are also well connected with their Rural Advisory Groups, so in times of adversity they play a lead role in supporting all primary producers . This may include help during or following an adverse weather event .

Currently Rural Support are helping farmers who are having to isolate due to

Covid . So, if someone gets

Covid on farm and wants to chat or needs help with onfarm support or deliveries please get in touch .