Rural Support urges farming community to look out for one another as clocks go back

While the clocks changing marks the arrival of darker evenings, the demands of farming continue regardless of the season. Livestock still need cared for, farm businesses must keep running and the financial and personal pressures that many farming families experience do not simply disappear when the working day ends.

For farmers who spend long hours working alone, the move into the darker months can also bring fewer opportunities to socialise, get outdoors or take a break from the daily routine.

Rural Support, which provides confidential support to farmers and farming families across Northern Ireland, is encouraging people to make their wellbeing a priority and to check in with those around them as winter approaches. Making time to talk matters.

Farming can be rewarding, but it can also bring uncertainty, isolation and pressures that are difficult to share. Financial worries, family circumstances, business decisions and the responsibility of keeping a farm running can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly when several challenges arise at once.

Gyles Dawson, Director of Programmes, said: “When the clocks go back, we notice the evenings getting darker but for many farmers, the working day carries on much as before. The livestock still need looked after, the jobs still need done and there are often worries and responsibilities that people carry quietly in the background.

“Farmers are used to looking after others and putting the needs of their farm and family first but it’s important to remember that their own wellbeing matters too. You don’t have to wait until things reach breaking point before talking to someone. Sometimes, sharing a worry or having a conversation with someone who understands can be the first step towards finding a way forward.

​“We would encourage everyone in the farming community to check in with a neighbour, friend or family member over the coming weeks. A simple question, a phone call or taking time to listen can make a real difference. If you’re struggling yourself, please know that you don’t have to face it alone. Rural Support is here to listen and help you explore the support available.”

Rural Support provides a confidential Support Line for farmers and farming families across Northern Ireland. Whether someone is worried about farm finances, business pressures, family difficulties, isolation or their mental wellbeing, the service offers a listening ear and can help people identify practical next steps and access further support where needed.

The charity is encouraging people not to dismiss their concerns or feel they must manage everything themselves. Reaching out early can help prevent worries from building up and make it easier to identify a way forward.

As the evenings draw in, Rural Support is also reminding the wider community that looking after one another is important. Taking a few minutes to ask someone how they are doing, listening without judgement and keeping in touch with people who may be isolated can all help strengthen rural communities.

Farmers, farming families and rural dwellers can contact Rural Support’s confidential Support Line on 0800 138 1678, Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm.

Further information is available at www.ruralsupport.org.uk.