Embrace FARM launches new ‘encircle’ programme to provide 1:1 supports
Embrace FARM, Ireland’s only support network for those bereaved by, or who have survived, farm accidents has launched a new one-to-one mentoring programme.
The Embrace FARM Encircle programme will offer supports to farmers and farm families all over the country through a nationwide panel of professional mentors encompassing the full spectrum of legal, financial, Agri and emotional issues that individuals and families contend with in the aftermath of these sudden situations.
The programme, funded by the European Innovation Partnership (EIP), through the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, will offer one-toone supports for individuals and families in the aftermath of a farm accident, suspected suicide, sudden trauma or fatal illness.
According to findings from the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) there have been over 200 farm-related deaths in Ireland over the last ten years and many more accidents, with 113 serious accidents recorded in 2021 alone.
The programme has been developed by a dedicated operational group which is led by Embrace FARM, and the programme supports are informed by industry specialists including IFAC, Agricultural Solicitors, Agricultural Consultants Association, Rural Support, HSE National Office of Suicide Prevention.
Norma Rohan, General Manager and co-founder of Embrace FARM said, “Our panel of mentors have been carefully selected in order to cater to the many complex issues facing families and individuals who have been impacted in the aftermath of a farm accident or suspected suicide. Once someone contacts us, we will work with them to figure out what they need, and in what order of priority, and from there we will match them with the right professional mentors who can support them where they need help the most, whether it be legal, emotional, financial or general support with the overall operation of a farming business.”
Since its inception in 2014 by husband and wife team Brian and Norma Rohan, Embrace FARM has supported more than 285 farm families in the aftermath of a serious farm accident or fatality. Having lost Brian’s father Liam, in a traumatic farm accident in 2012, the Rohan’s knew from firsthand experience that there was a growing need for support in this area.?
Embrace FARM will continue to offer its peerto-peer support services in conjunction with the Encircle Programme. Its annual ecumenical Remembrance Service takes place in Abbeyleix, Co. Laois on Sunday, 26th June.
If you or anyone near you needs the help Embrace FARM can offer, please go to www. embracefarm.com or call 057-8510555 / 085– 7709966.