Kerry Dairy Ireland (KDI) has launched a first of its kind farmer support programme in an aim to support farmers and their family’s mental health and wellbeing.

KDI is the first Irish dairy processor to offer a full employee assistance programme (EAP) to its milk suppliers. The programme has been developed with KDI long-standing EAP partner Lyra International.

The programme offers farm families confidential counselling, wellbeing support, financial and legal advice, parenting and family guidance, crisis assistance and practical guidance, free of cost.

ADVERTISEMENT

KDI has said: “the farmer support programme marks a significant evolution in how processors can strengthen the wellbeing and long term resilience of their supplier base.”

Pat Murphy, CEO of Kerry Dairy Ireland commented following the announcement: “at Kerry Dairy Ireland, we recognise the growing pressures facing farming families.

“Extending our employee assistance programme to suppliers ensures they have expert, confidential support whenever they need it. An industry first we’re proud to deliver.”

Andrew Davies, president of Lyra International stated: “by including milk suppliers in this wellbeing rollout, we are addressing a vital need for mental health access in the agricultural sector.

“Lyra is dedicated to providing these producers and their immediate families with the tools to thrive, ensuring the long-term health and vitality of the farming communities that Kerry Dairy Ireland serves."

HR director of Kerry Dairy Ireland, Fiona O’Carroll emphasised the importance of wellbeing support for KDI suppliers, stating “people are the foundation of our business, from the farm right through the organisation. “By extending this support to suppliers and their families, we’re reinforcing a culture where care and wellbeing are prioritised at every level.”