The short days and long nights of what has been a difficult January for many are finally drawing to a close.

February marks the onset of the busy calving and lambing period on many farms, which means longer working hours and increased work pressure.

As farmers, we are well used to working on our own, but lockdown has changed this slightly.

The chats

We can no longer have a chat at the mart or co-op, or even pull up at a neighbour’s yard for a few minutes to exchange the latest news.

While these conversations may have seemed insignificant at the time, it is what people are missing most now that they have been taken away.

Never underestimate the difference a five-minute phone call can have on a person’s mood

Take a few minutes out of your day over the next few weeks to call someone that you haven’t spoken to in a while.

Never underestimate the difference a five-minute phone call can have on a person’s mood - you might be the only person they speak to all day.

Pass it on

Before you finish your conversation, suggest to the person you are taking to that they do the same and call a farmer friend.

Together, the entire farming community can help each other through this difficult time until we can get back to brighter days in the not too distant future.