How has the pandemic impacted rural life?

The News Letter has always been devoted to highlighting the issues which affect our readers in rural areas.
By Helen McGurk
Published 26th Sep 2020, 07:00 BST
AUCHTERARDER, SCOTLAND - MARCH 09: A tractor takes part in a ploughing competition close to the Perthshire village of Auchterarder March 9, 2005 which is preparing for the 2005 G8 Summit at Gleneagles Hotel Auchterarder, Scotland. According to police, the tightest security in Scottish history will be implemented for the meeting which will be held from July 6-8, 2005 in the quiet countryside town. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)AUCHTERARDER, SCOTLAND - MARCH 09: A tractor takes part in a ploughing competition close to the Perthshire village of Auchterarder March 9, 2005 which is preparing for the 2005 G8 Summit at Gleneagles Hotel Auchterarder, Scotland. According to police, the tightest security in Scottish history will be implemented for the meeting which will be held from July 6-8, 2005 in the quiet countryside town. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
AUCHTERARDER, SCOTLAND - MARCH 09: A tractor takes part in a ploughing competition close to the Perthshire village of Auchterarder March 9, 2005 which is preparing for the 2005 G8 Summit at Gleneagles Hotel Auchterarder, Scotland. According to police, the tightest security in Scottish history will be implemented for the meeting which will be held from July 6-8, 2005 in the quiet countryside town. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

Covid-19 has put tremendous pressure on all aspects of our lives and we want to find out how the coronavirus pandemic has impacted those living and working in rural parts of the province.

We will be running a series of in-depth features on the difficulties faced by farmers, families, businesses and individuals, as we all cope with the challenges presented during these unprecedented times.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

News Letter editor Alistair Bushe said: “The News Letter has a long and proud history of supporting Northern Ireland’s farming communities and those living in rural areas.

“During these uncertain times, we want to reassure our readers that we are there to listen to them and to highlight their concerns.

“For this reason we will be running a special series called Changed Lives, which is dedicated to exploring all the issues currently experienced by those living in rural communities.”

Our Changed Lives series begins on October 10 and we want to hear from you. Has the pandemic made you feel more isolated? Have you struggled with access to healthcare? Has digital connectivity been an issue for you?

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In what ways has your community adapted and what has the impact been on farming?

We’re interested in finding out about new projects, businesses and initiatives which have sprung up during the crisis.

We would also like to hear if your community has rallied around to support one another, especially older people or the vulnerable.

*If you would like to share your story please get in touch with Helen McGurk on 07779481033 or email: [email protected].

Related topics:Covid-19Northern Ireland

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.