New support service for Scottish farmers

The new service, known as GATEPOST, is in response to rising numbers of people asking the charity for help of a non-financial nature.

It will take the form of a dedicated helpline, staffed by people who not only understand farming but also have specialist knowledge and experience within stress and crisis support. It will initially be funded through release of residual funding from the RSABI 2007 FMD Emergency Fund.

Dr Maurice Hankey, RSABI chief executive, said: “While there are a number of extremely valuable support services in existence already, we recognised the need for a service that is specific to the Scottish farming community and which can offer support from people who fully understand what life is like on farm.

“This service will be offering exactly what its name suggests – somewhere to lean and catch your breath while contemplating how to overcome current stresses, as well as a place where you can share your thoughts or problems safe in the knowledge that they will go no further.

• RSABI can be contacted on www.rsabi.org.uk or 0131 472 4166.

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