Dr Luke Evans, Member of Parliament for Bosworth, has raised mental health support for farmers as the profession is one of the most at risk of suicide, and asked about support for rural communities such as Hinckley and Bosworth.
The local MP, who represents a constituency that is 85% agricultural, asked the Farming Minister about the Government’s work to support our farmers and their families across the nation with mental health issues.
A study by the Farm Safety Foundation found that 88% of farmers under the age of 40 rank poor mental health as the biggest problem they face today.
The Farming Minister, Mark Spencer MP, thanked Dr Evans for his work in the area and highlighted the Yellow Wellies charity, which provides advice and information on how to identify potential mental health issues.
Dr Luke Evans, Member of Parliament for Bosworth, said “I believe passionately in supporting and championing the many excellent farmers and producers across our proud rural community. Jeremy Clarkson has shone a light on the issues facing farmers and brought the public’s attention to some of the difficulties.
“Mental health pressures are something I've discussed with farmers across our area and which was raised in a survey I carried out last year, so I welcomed the chance to raise this important issue.
“I'm pleased to hear of the support available and will continue to ensure we look after the farmers who work so hard for our community.”
Mark Spencer, the Farming Minster, said “The Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs supports community action to tackle loneliness in rural areas via our ongoing funding of Action with Communities in Rural England, and initiatives that address the mental health impacts of social isolation.
“The farm welfare forum brings together England’s largest farming welfare organisations, many of which provide excellent mental health support.
“In October last year we opened the third phase of our future farming resilience fund. It provides free expert business advice to farmers and supports mental health and wellbeing where appropriate.”
