Friday, March 29, 2024

Still in business

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Rural people are urged to band together in keeping safe as they ride the tough times of the coronavirus pandemic. Social resilience is key and if everyone works together “we will get through this,” the Mental Health Foundation says.
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Agriculture is still in business and likely to lead the bounce back, ASB rural economist Nathan Penny says.

“Farming is likely to be the quickest to rebound from the fallout from coronavirus.  

“When crisis hits, food demand remains and that will be no different this time,” Penny said.

China is getting back to business and sectors that deal with China will rebound quicker.

While farmers might not get paid as much there will be demand for food, with the exception of luxury foods such as prime steak, seafood and wine. 

Coronavirus is also affecting key competitors and Penny predicts it could reduce overseas farmers’ ability to produce.

New Zealand farming production is unlikely to change and can hold up better than others.

Looking at the next three to six months everything is fluid, Penny said.

Beef + Lamb chief executive Sam McIvor said the health of farmers is top priority and the industry has a responsibility to NZ’s economy to take steps to mitigate its risk of infection.

“We are one of the industries that has so far been able to continue and it is vital for our farmers and all New Zealanders that we take all measures to protect our second largest export sector and largest manufacturing employer. 

“We are conscious, for example, that if a farmer gets infected they have few options for getting assistance on their farm,” McIvor said.

Federated Farmers has published a coronavirus information sheet and the implications for employers.

First and foremost employers should heed their obligations under the Health and Safety at Work Act and those as employers, including individual employment agreements.

They should develop a plan with employees for likely workplace scenarios and if an employee is sick ensure they do not pose a threat to other employees.

If an employee cannot work or is required to self-isolate bosses should work with them on matters such as working from home, sick leave and special leave in line with individual agreements.

They should consider the type of work an employee is doing, including whether staff can isolate themselves or work on their own safely.

The Mental Health Foundation is aware covid outbreak is causing significant anxiety and stress. 

So it has developed a new online resource – Looking after mental health and wellbeing during covid-19.

Its website has tips on wellbeing and frequently asked questions.

The foundation is updating the website with resources, activities, tools and information as they become available.

“The number one message we want people to hear is – we will get through this if we work together.” 

Connecting with people who make you feel safe and loved is the most important thing you can do to look after your mental health and the mental health of people around you. 

“Self-isolation or staying at home means connecting will happen in different ways.  

“We also know that things are really tough right now for some people who live with mental illness. 

“Stress, anxiety and uncertainty don’t help.” 

The wellbeing tips are small, practical actions everyone can do. 

MORE:

Details on employer obligations, specific guidance, the support package and coronavirus updates are at fedfarm.org.nz.

Tips on mental health at mentalhealth.org.nz or free call or text 1737

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