Building on this collaboration, a new FCN Nottinghamshire County Group will be formed, ensuring that support for those living and working in farming communities in Nottinghamshire continues uninterrupted.
FCN is a national voluntary organisation and charity that supports farmers and families within the farming community through difficult times. Trained volunteers, many of whom are from farming backgrounds, provide free, confidential, pastoral and practical support to anyone who seeks help, regardless of whether the issue is personal or business-related. Each year, FCN helps roughly 6,000 people in the farming community.
NRS provides free volunteer support for farmers, their families and others in the rural community in Nottinghamshire who are going through difficult times that may be leading to anxiety and stress.
By coming together, the expertise and support networks of both organisations will be combined, ensuring a smooth transition.
Jude McCann, chief executive officer of the Farming Community Network, said: “Working together with Nottinghamshire Rural Support during this transition period continues a close working relationship supporting the farming community we have had for many years.
“This is a period of immense change in our industry and many farmers will need support in the coming months and years. This joined-up approach will allow us to consolidate our efforts and continue providing vital support to those most in need.”
Michael Arlington, a farmer and trustee of Nottinghamshire Rural Support, said: “NRS has the sole aim of trained volunteers being freely available to those farmers and rural people in the county who are going through difficult times and need to share their problems and who seek a listening ear. NRS trustees now believe that this is best achieved by becoming part of FCN.
“For our 8 years we have been working hand in glove with FCN and see this as a natural progression to best achieve our aims. The increased resources available for training and support will be of benefit to Notts folk.”
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