Free Powys event to discuss mental health issue in farming

The Mid Wales Volunteering Group of national charity the Farming Community Network (FCN) will be hosting a free event, including supper, for farming families looking at mental health in agriculture.

The event will see FCN Ambassador Will Penri Evans, who is also a Farmer’s Weekly columnist and Oxford Farming Conference Director, speaking at the event regarding his farming journey, as well as touching upon his own well-documented mental health struggles.

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"It can be challenging in farming to find the time to get off-farm to attend events or to meet new people,” said Will.

“This family-friendly event organised by The Farming Community Network is a great opportunity to come together, to share experiences and to remind ourselves we're part of a supportive community."

The event which will take place on Friday, September 22 at Gwernyfed Rugby Club, Talgarth at 7pm and will be assisted on the night by compere as sheep shearing commentator and local Farm Liaison Officer, Steve Meredith.

This event is part of a wider project run by FCN to combat loneliness and social isolation in farming communities.

Research undertaken by FCN and the University of Exeter’s Centre for Rural Policy Research (CRPR) in 2021 found that a lack of social opportunities in farming contributes to increased feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Linda Jones, National Manager Wales, The Farming Community Network, said: “Farming people can find it extremely difficult to enjoy any quality time away from the farm due to numerous challenges such as lone working, geographical location and long working hours. These factors can significantly impact the health and wellbeing of farming people.”

Elaine Stephens, FCN Cymru Mid Wales Volunteering Group Chair, added: “We’re very much looking forward to our group’s Yarn in a Barn. It will give us an opportunity to get together as farmers for a few hours to socialise and take away some top tips from Will for good mental health.”

If you would like to secure your free place at this event, please get in touch with Elaine Stephens by telephone on 01874 711356 or email elainestephens.fcn@gmail.com by 15 September.