Ulster Farmers’ Union President Ian Marshall is delighted to announce that £2,000 has been raised for Rural Support, the President’s chosen charity for his two year term, at the UFU Annual Dinner held on the 27th March. The generous sum of money was kindly donated by dinner attendees.
UFU President Ian Marshall said: “I would like to thank the guests for their kind donations and for showing their support to a charity that helps the rural community in so many different ways. Rural Support was formed back in 2002 to help deal with the foot and mouth epidemic which had a severe impact on farmers and the rural community as a whole. Since then the charity has gone from strength to strength providing help and support to farmers and rural dwellers through a confidential helpline and signposting service. They have a team of dedicated trained volunteers who listen and assist farmers and rural families with issues such as: financial problems, physical and mental health, emotional distress, farming paperwork and bureaucracy. They are available seven days a week and the support they can provide is invaluable and I would encourage anyone who feels they are struggling to contact Rural Support.”
Rural Support Chief Executive Jude McCann added: “We are extremely grateful to the UFU for their continued support. As a small independent charity all donations received are most welcome and help to ensure the continued work of Rural Support. In the current economic climate we would encourage any farm family experiencing difficulties to contact our helpline and avail of our free financial mentoring service. Our experienced team of volunteers from across Northern Ireland are also willing to help in terms of practical/technical support as well as emotional support. From talking with our clients Rural Support is acutely aware of the mounting pressures on farming families and rural dwellers. Our key message is ‘it’s ok to ask for help’.
Rural Support can be contacted on 0845 606 7 607 or visit their website at www.ruralsupport.org.uk. The Rural Support helpline operates from 8am to 11pm, seven days a week (voicemail and support options available at all other times).
