Support for All (including carers and veterans)
The Farming Community
As the Rural Communities Mental Health Foundation suggests there are significant challenges for farmers and those that work in rural communities
“The nuances of the agricultural industry and what makes it unique are as challenging as they are rewarding. The way of life, the highs and lows, the time spent alone, the impact of external socio-economic and political factors and the unpredictability of the seasons. Just some of the things that can make it hard for people outside of this world to really get it. But we do. And we also get that it’s not just farmers who might find themselves struggling in our rural communities, and that none of us are immune to the challenges that everyday life throws at us.”
“Mental health in rural communities” Rural Communities Mental Health Foundation website. Retrieved 12th December 2024
Local support - self referral
Specific social support for the farming community
From Buckinghamshire Young Farmers Clubs
“We are a rural youth organisation made up of members aged between 10 and 28, despite the name you don’t have to be a farmer to join, absolutely anyone is welcome. There are clubs covering all parts of the county, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy sports, make new friends, socialize, compete and gain skills.” Bucks YFC – Find a Club
Joining a Young Farmers club outside Buckinghamshire
From the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs
“There are over 500 YFC clubs to join across England and Wales, so there’s sure to be a club near you!” Joining YFC
urgent support
Includes support available in a mental health emergency for
Wellbeing and mental health support
There is significant local support for
alcohol and drug support
There is excellent local support for alcohol and drugs which can be found under
Mental Health First Aider
From the Rural Communities Mental Health Foundation
“A mental health awareness and suicide prevention charity for people working and living in rural and agricultural communities and their support networks.”
- Supporting you to support others Mental Health First Aid Training — Rural Communities Mental Health Foundation
National support - self referral
Helplines
From the Farming Community Network
“Talk to a sympathetic person who understands farming and rural life, including with health issues such as stress, depression, isolation, long term illness, accidents and alcohol and drug dependency. Calls will be answered in person from 7am to 11pm every day of the year.”
From the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI)
Improving health and reducing health inequalities
For steps to improve everyone’s health and reduce local health inequalities, see under
- A Healthier Life – RECOMMENDED
This page does not just include medical support but potential support in other areas of life.
Safety
From Yellow Wellies
“While UK farmers are among the best in the world, farming remains one of our country’s most hazardous industries. Our focus is on preparing the next generation of farmers to be responsible, confident and safe farmers of the future and our ambition is clear – to find a way to stop farmers having life changing accidents and dying at work.”
