Stress levels rising on farms
CALLS TO stress helplines have soared since January as farmers struggle to cope with form filling and new rules on agricultural payments.
The helplines reported a big increase in the number of calls ahead of last Monday’s (May 16) deadline for applications – and the problem is set to worsen with much paperwork still outstanding.
“It’s been an intensely stressful and anxious time for almost everyone,” Farm Crisis Network deputy national coordinator Helen Doggrell said.
The problems resulting from SFP applications, Rural Land Register maps and the new centralised RPA call centre have contributed to a doubling of calls to the FCN’s helpline in April, Ms Doggrell told FARMERS WEEKLY.
“Everything has been conspiring against everyone – however competent or well prepared they are.
“It’s not just a few people struggling – everyone is worrying. People are very frightened of getting it wrong because of the implications. Everyone is in the same boat.”
Farmers are wary of doctors – but anyone feeling stressed or depressed should seek help early, urged Ms Doggrell.
“Too often, people come to us when they are really in a corner. There’s often a lot more that can be done if people come early.”
Late submissions, returned forms and later payments compared with the old system could spark increased anxiety in the future, she predicts.
James Morrish, promotions officer with the Rural Stress Information Network, is also urging those with worries to contact confidential support groups.
“Some people feel it is an admission of failure to ask for advice or a helping hand. Actually, you are a stronger person if you ask for help and sort the problem.
“A problem shared is a problem more than halved and everyone needs a helping hand from someone at some point in their life.”
The new rules could streamline paperwork eventually, but short-term worries have conspired with problems such as TB and the ongoing fall-out from foot-and-mouth to leave farming families “tearing their hair out”.
The current problems come against a backdrop of high levels of stress in rural communities, many dating back to the foot-and-mouth crisis, says Chris Coates, team leader at the Rural Emotional Support Team.
“The disease has gone away – but nothing else has changed. For some people, things are worse.”
Social exclusion is on the increase and many have a “devalued attitude”, he says.
“Farmers often say they don’t feel valued any more. They don’t always believe how multi-talented and multi-skilled they are.
“Farmers are one of the highest occupation categories at risk of suicide.”
Rural Stress Information Network (Information, guidance) 02476 412916
Farm Crisis Network (Practical support) 07002 326326
Rural Emotional Support Team (Hands-on and emotional support) 01785 255305
Samaritans (Emotional support) 08457 909090
Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (Welfare, financial assistance) 01865 727888
ARC-Addington Fund (Rural housing help) 02476 690587