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 aims to raise awareness of the 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.
The campaign was launched at Peter and Paula Hynes’ dairy farm in Aherla, Co Cork.
Peter has openly spoken about his own mental health struggles and founded Ag Mental Health Week with Paula to show others in rural areas that support is available.
"Farming is a demanding and tough occupation for some. Ensuring we highlight the importance of reaching out for support in times of crisis is crucial and the greatest way to reduce stigma around mental health and suicide is through a united voice," he said.
"The scale of this message and collaboration between Samaritans Ireland and the Irish dairy industry is truly inspiring, ensuring rural Ireland know there is always someone willing to listen."
Samaritans' volunteers answer over half a million calls for help every year.
