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© AdobeStock/ VAKSMANV The unrelenting Covid-19 pandemic, combined with winter weather, has affected staff mental health as well as overall productivity, according to dairy specialist Kite
Consulting. But there are steps that all farmworkers and employers can take to motivate and support each other during this difficult period, as well as creating a plan, should staff become
infected with covid. We spoke to consultant Joanne Speed for advice on how to keep up the team’s spirits and look after their welfare at this time, and to farmer Stephen Tuer on how his
staff covid protocols were put to use. See also: Coronavirus: Advice for managing and keeping staff safe MOTIVATION * Acknowledge each other’s efforts and accomplishments – publicly or
privately * Take time to enjoy small celebrations such as birthdays * Asking workmates how they are and if they need any support will help show they are a valued member of the team * Offer
relevant training and allocate new responsibilities SAFETY Helping staff feel safe and secure is more important than ever. Ms Speed recommends taking these steps: * Provide staff with a key
worker letter for when they are travelling locally during lockdown * Ensure up-to-date personal protection equipment is available to all the team * Consider laundry facilities on site for
overalls and workwear to be washed and stored at the farm * Help any foreign staff, who haven’t yet but still want to, apply for the EU settlement scheme PREPARE FOR WORST-CASE SCENARIOS
Farmers have been advised to create a farm emergency plan for helpers to consult should they contract the virus. This should be personalised to their specific business. For a livestock farm
this might include: * Useful contact details * Calving/lambing information * Details of where items such as medication and livestock records are kept Yorkshire pig producer Stephen Tuer had
40% of his staff off work with Covid-19 over Christmas, when the daily task list was at its most intensive. “Despite all of our preventative work, the virus did come in and spread among
staff,” Mr Tuer said. “We were able to manage, but it was hard work and put pressure on the staff who hadn’t tested positive.” Fortunately, the team was well prepared due to the protocols
that had been put in place. This included getting ahead with tasks while the full complement of staff was available, and minimising contact and the risk of spreading the virus by working
independently where possible. See also: Helpline offers practical advice to farmers ill with Covid-19 Rural charities are on hand for support and advice, including the Farming Help line
(03000 111 999 or 0300 111 4166 in Scotland), which has been set up specifically for Covid-19 matters.