The rural sector can be tough – but support is available
Working in the rural sector can be a rewarding one, but it can be stressful at times. But remember, you’re not alone. It’s important to act fast to ensure that pressure doesn't mount up.
Support is available, depending on the help and guidance you need. The following organisations can help with advice and expertise specific to the sector:
- Rural Support Trusts - 0800 RURAL HELP or www.rural-support.org.nz
- Federated Farmers - 0800 FARMING or www.fedfarm.org.nz
- Dairy NZ - 0800 4 DAIRYNZ or www.dairynz.co.nz
- Beef & Lamb NZ - 0800 BEEFLAMB or www.beeflambnz.com
- Ministry for Primary Industries - 0800 00 8333 or www.mpi.govt.nz
Mental health support:
Kiwi farmers and growers often experience pressure and challenges in their work. Getting ideas on how to take care of yourself and others will help you find your way through:
- Information on health & well-being in the rural sector can be found here
- Free mental health support in your area is available on this website
- You can learn more about depression here or access the depression helpline on 0800 111 757 or at www.depression.org.nz/rural
Ballance supports the following events, which encourage you to step away from the pressures of the job for a few hours, engage with people who may be experiencing the same challenges as you and get some exercise in a relaxed and fun environment:
Financial support:
There is a wide range of independent organisations that can help with advice and expertise during challenging times, depending on your individual circumstances.
There is a wide range of potential measures available across the banking sector, including:
- Reducing or suspending principal payments on loans and temporarily moving to interest-only payments
- Allowing term deposits to be broken without associated costs
- Low interest loans for investment in key environmental systems and projects
- Waiving fees associated with restructuring business loans
- Providing access to short term funding
- Financial management and budgeting advice
- Access to workshops on improving farm productivity and performance
- Farmers should talk to their bank to find out whether specific assistance is available for them
The key is to act before the event takes place, have a plan and a budget in place, and keep your banker and advisers in the loop.