New support Services for Glanbia Co-op Farmer Shareholders offering free and confidential support 24/7

Glanbia Co-op is supporting the mental health and wellbeing of its family farm supplier shareholders through a free and confidential counselling and information service provided in partnership with Vhi Corporate Solutions.

The new ‘Support Services for Glanbia Farmer Shareholders’ programme is an information and support initiative available around the clock to help Glanbia shareholders, their families and those working on the farm. It offers targeted expert and professional help.

Professional support is available to help ease the burden for those struggling with mental health challenges, addictions, financial pressures on farm, bereavement counselling, relationships and parenting challenges. The new Support Services for Glanbia Farmer Shareholders also provides access to a Specialist Information Service, Coaching Programmes, Trauma Support and an Interactive Online Portal.

Supplier shareholders and their dependents engaging with the service can see a counsellor locally for up to six face-to-face sessions per issue, all for free. All they need to do is get in touch with the free support service by phoning 1800 995 955 or email [email protected].

John Murphy, Glanbia Co-op Chairman, encouraged suppliers who are struggling in any way to reach out, take the first step and engage with the expert team in confidence. “This is a great resource for our farmer shareholders. It is important to promote positive mental health. We’re all aware of the stresses that running a farm, like any business, can bring to our day-to-day lives.

“It’s important that members of our Glanbia family take time and step back and are not afraid to avail of the supports available. We would hope that those who need it make good use of this counselling and information service provided by Vhi.

“We’re all very good at minding our animals, farms and families. But we need to step back and mind ourselves too and ask for help if we need it. You do not have to be a Vhi Member to avail of this service.”

John McGrath, Vhi Corporate Account Manager for Glanbia, said: “Vhi is delighted to be working with Glanbia Co-op on this important initiative. The service, which will provide professional, confidential support to Glanbia farmer shareholders 365 days a year, is a space to find practical assistance and emotional support during times of stress, strain or crisis. The service covers a full spectrum of issues from personal and family matters to work or money problems and we would encourage farmers to use the service.”

James O’Brien, Glanbia Co-op Shareholder, said: “At some stage through the journey of life if a farmer needs a little bit of help with their mental wellbeing it’s great to have a resource there; that someone can pick up the phone and contact this Vhi helpline.

“This service is great for the whole family, the whole farm and for his or her family and those that work with them. It’s a great tool to have at your disposal any time of the day or night.”

• To avail of this service, please call 1800 995 955 or email [email protected]

First Published 11 May 2022