Ask for help – contractors

RCNZ vice president and Southland-based contractor David Kean says there are reports of contractors unable to get work done and struggling to pay their bills, with some having to lay off staff.

"Many contractors are really feeling it and the stress is starting to tell on both them and their businesses. Our advice is simple: ask for help and talk to the appropriate agencies before things get out of hand," he explains.

Meanwhile, Canterbury has the opposite problem. Strong, cold Norwest winds and very little rain over the last couple of months, have meant that after a busy start to the season, there is now very little work left to do.

Kean says if rural contractors are struggling to pay bills and/or staff they should be in contact with both Work and Income NZ and the IRD for assistance and advice.

"It is far better for people to be proactive; admit they have issues to deal with and seek the appropriate help, rather than just bottling it up or letting any problems get out of hand.

"Both IRD and WINZ are there to provide help in these kinds of situations and they have the people and expertise to offer advice and assistance."

Kean says while Rural Contractors NZ is also attempts to help members and to act as support network for contractors, they are not experts in matters of finance or mental duress and people should seek help from professionals.

"We are telling people they should be talking with their accountants and financial advisors about their business and with their families and medical professionals if they are under pressure themselves."

The chair of the Rural Health Alliance Aotearoa NZ (RHAANZ) Dr Jo Scott-Jones agrees.

"We know rural people tend to delay seeking help until they can no longer work, but it is true that a 'stitch in time saves nine'", Dr Scott-Jones says.

"Talking to a GP or practice nurse about stress seems to cause people difficulty. But anyone in this situation should know it is never as hard as you think and the benefits that flow from sharing some of the burden and talking through the way you feel can be enormous."

Kean adds that talking with professionals, as well as family and friends is an important step in getting the proper advice and help – when and where it is needed.

"Farmers also need to be aware of the pressure contractors are under and have to be realistic about getting work done," he adds.

"The last couple of months have been so wet that even if the weather cleared today it is going to take a long time to clear the back log of work and get everyone caught up again."