Rural groups are committing to create a supportive and resilient environment for young people in the food and fibre sector.
New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive Lynda Coppersmith said Young Farmers and Rural Support Trust had signed a memorandum of understanding to commit to working together to leverage their respective strengths and expertise to seek to achieve four "vital" objectives.
1. Increasing awareness: The partnership aims to raise awareness of the existence and services provided by Young Farmers and the trust.
"By working together, we can ensure that young individuals working and training in the food and fibre sector are informed about the resources available to them for maintaining good mental health."
2. Improving connections: One of the primary goals of the understanding was to improve the connections between young people in the industry and the support they need for positive mental health outcomes.
"By fostering stronger relationships and networks, both organisations aim to create a supportive environment where young people can thrive."
3. Enhancing access to support: Young Farmers and the trust were committed to increasing access to appropriate support for young people with mental health and well-being concerns.
"This includes providing resources and guidance to those who may be struggling and facilitating referrals to the right professional support, ensuring they receive the help they need promptly."
4. Strengthening rural communities: As a result of this partnership, rural communities and their connections would be strengthened.
By focusing on the mental health and well-being of young people in the food and fibre sector, both organisations hoped to create resilient and supportive communities which contributed to the overall well-being of their members.
The memorandum marked a significant step forward in addressing the mental health challenges faced by young people in New Zealand's agriculture and rural sectors.
Both organisations were deeply committed to the well-being of young individuals in these industries and recognise the importance of working together to achieve positive outcomes.
"We believe that by combining our efforts with Rural Support Trust, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people working and training in the food and fibre sector. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to support and empower the next generation."
Trust general manager Maria Shanks said the trust was delighted to partner with Young Farmers in the important endeavour.
"Our shared commitment to improving mental health and wellbeing in rural communities makes this partnership a natural fit, and we look forward to the positive outcomes it will bring."
"It is anticipated that this collaboration will result in better mental health outcomes, stronger rural communities, and improved overall well-being for young individuals in these vital industries."
shawn.mcavinue@alliedpress.co.nz
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