The Rural Chaplaincy Team of the Salisbury Diocese works across Dorset and Wiltshire, visiting farms and rural businesses, providing support where it is needed.
‘It is about being part of the fabric,’ explains Jo Churchill, the organiser of Church Tent. ‘The team are immersed in everything that happens – big or small, they’re a listening ear or a signpost where it’s needed.’
Each Tuesday, the chaplains visit the Salisbury Livestock Market. The weekly event is more than transactional business for the farmers attending, it is their social network. And not just for the farmers – the chaplains meet dealers, hauliers, agents, caterers, vets and regulatory officers as they reach far and wide into the rural, often very isolated, agricultural community by means of a central, regular meeting place.
Rural chaplains are trained to provide wellbeing and mental health support. But the team are aware that illness and physical issues are often not being addressed. ‘It’s the nature of farming,’ says Jo. ‘Many are unable to find the time to attend regular GP appointments, and most will prioritise their work over their own wellbeing.’
Inspired by the success of a project in another livestock market, from June NHS healthcare professionals will be working alongside the rural chaplains, holding weekly drop-in surgeries at the Salisbury market.
Two rural chaplains will be present for both days of the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show on 14th and 15th August – the Church Tent is providing a base for them. Do come along for a chat.
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