Having difficult conversations

We all worry about our family and friends from time to time. 

It’s natural to want to support our family and friends if we think they are struggling but it isn’t always easy to have a difficult conversation around our emotions or about things that are sensitive, like our health.

Many in the agricultural industry also work closely with family members which can be hugely rewarding and beneficial for all, but for some people it can lead to stress and strained relationships particularly if there is a breakdown in communication or difference of opinion. 

Again, it can be difficult to talk about a wide range of issues including succession, the best way to run the business, finances and making changes to how things are done.

Having conversations around these, sometimes sensitive, topics can be hard, but having them is so important.

It is much better to have things in place before major life changes happen. 

If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed please don’t hesitate to contact RSABI on 0808 1234 555 or use the confidential webchat service on this website. We can chat things over with you and provide a listening ear. 

If you are worried about someone you could call our helpline to talk things through and discuss how to approach the situation. You could also suggest that they call our free confidential helpline too, or with their permission, you could refer someone through the helpline. We can give them a call to find out how best we can support them, which could include accessing things like counselling or a business review. 

Other ways we can help:

• Help to access business reviews to help plan a way forward for your farm or croft
• Discuss your concerns over succession and point you in the direction of professional support and advice
• Guidance and signposting to organisations that can support on debt advice and financial management
• Mediation services
• Liaising with third party agencies to support you