The Rural Support helpline provides a listening and signposting service for farmers and rural dwellers across Northern Ireland. Callers to the helpline are from all ages and backgrounds and come from every part of Northern Ireland. Rural Support volunteers man the helpline on a daily basis and they are based across Northern Ireland. Our volunteers have a range of skills and backgrounds from former DARD employees, farmers, counsellors, clergy, accountants and medical professionals.
The types of issues that we address include farming paperwork and bureaucracy, emotional distress, suicide risk, financial problems, inheritance issues, physical and mental health worries. Everyone's circumstances are different. We will take time to listen carefully to your concerns and needs and we will work with you to find the best way ahead.
Depending on your needs, some of the following might help you. In all cases, we will agree actions with you in advance and get your permission before conatcting other organisations on your behalf.
- contact information and/or signposting to appropriate organisations;
- face-to-face meeting with you to understand your concerns;
- mediation or intervention with another person or organisation to help you address your problems;
- counselling provided by one of our qualified counsellors;
- mentoring and ongoing support;
- financial consultation, if appropriate, to review your financial situation. All calls are confidential. The helpline is available 8am to 11pm, seven days a week (voicemail and support options available at all other times). The helpline number is 0845 606 7 607.
