Ireland’s dairy sector is driving a rural mental health campaign by featuring Samaritans’ helpline signage on milk tankers travelling across the countryside.
The new partnership with milk processors - who are all members of the Ibec group Dairy Industry Ireland (DII ) - aims to raise awareness of Samaritans freephone number 116 123 among farmers and other people in rural Ireland, especially those living or working in isolation.
The signs will appear on approximately 500 milk trucks and agri-feed vehicles owned by some of the country’s largest co-operatives. It is supported by Arrabawn, Aurivo, Carbery (including Drinagh, Bandon, Lisavard and Barryroe co-ops ), Dairygold, Glanbia, Kerry, Lakeland, North Cork, Ornua (Kerrygold ), and Tipperary.
Conor Ryan, DII Chair and Chief Executive of Arrabawn Co-Op, said the members of DII are delighted to support Samaritans and spread the message that help is there for anyone who is struggling to cope.
Samaritans’ volunteers answer over half a million calls for help every year.
Samaritans Deputy Regional Director, Aileen Spitere, said the initiative will target those hard-to-reach groups who are often most at risk of loneliness and isolation, may have family, work or financial worries, have mental health problems, or feel suicidal.
“We are delighted to have the support of the dairy co-operatives for this campaign, not just to reach dairy farmers, but anyone living, working or driving in rural areas who may see our helpline number on a vehicle,” said Aileen, a volunteer in Samaritans Cork branch.
“We want people to know that Samaritans is here for anyone struggling to cope, no matter who you are or where you are, on freephone 116 123 or email [email protected].
“Mental health challenges and suicide are complex, going beyond simply where you live or what profession you are in, but these can also be factors. The increased risk factors for those living in rural and agricultural settings such as poor access to services, isolation and persistent loneliness mean it’s essential for us to do more to reach people in these environments.”
