The first case of coronavirus (COVID-19) was confirmed in Scotland in March 2020. These are worrying times for everyone, at an already busy and potentially stressful time for the farming and crofting community with the pressures of lambing, calving and other spring work.  

If you’re feeling stressed or isolated, or if you need practical help, please get in touch by calling our helpline 0300 111 4166. We’re here to help seven days a week from 7am to 11pm, and all calls are completely confidential.   

RSABI supports people from Scottish agriculture emotionally, practically and financially in times of need. For more information on the support we can offer visit our How RSABI can help page.  

We’ve increased the frequency of calls we are making to people we know could be lonely or in need of practical help. If you know of someone who would appreciate a call from us then please get in touch by calling 0300 111 4166 or emailing rsabi@rsabi.org.uk. 

We’re also urging people to take the time to call each other, particularly checking in on elderly or vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours. Even a small act of kindness can make a big difference to someone struggling with isolation and anxiety. 

Make sure your neighbours have your number. If you have their number give them a call and see how they are. Communication can be critical during isolation. Ask if RSABI can call them and let us know.  

It’s also important that people make plans now in case of illness so that friends, family, neighbours, contractors or volunteers can take over essential day-to-day jobs if you’re unable to do so.  You can use this Farm Emergency Plan template to prepare valuable information. Keep it somewhere it's easily found.

To keep up to date with news and information from RSABI – sign up to our mailing list  

For the latest information and advice on COVID-19 please use the following links: 

• UK Government general advice and information  
• Scottish Government general advice and information 
• NHS Inform Scotland  
• Scottish Enterprise COVID-19 advice for businesses or call the business support helpline on 0300 303 0660 
• Farm Advisory Service  
• Rural Payments and Services 
• NFU Scotland Coronavirus Guidance - including a Farm Worker Movement letter and a Key Workers Movement letter on the Guidance for Employers page
• Scotland Food and Drink  
• Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland 

You can also get tips on how to look after your mental health during the COVID-19 outbreak on the Mental Health Foundation website.