Greg Smith MP has shown support for rural mental health by hearing from farming charities and recognising the additional challenges faced by rural communities which have been highlighted in a new survey from the National Farmers Union (NFU).
The NFU convened rural mental health charities at an event in Parliament, bringing together a wide group of stakeholders and experts to discuss rural mental health, the ways that it can be improved, and the support needed to tackle the root causes of the challenges faced by farmers.
At the event Greg met with NFU Community Farming Heroes Lynda and Andy Eadon who lost their son Len to suicide on New Year’s Day 2022. This summer, having already raised more than £100,000 for charity, Andy will hit the road on a nationwide tractor drive from John O’Groats to Land’s End (including through Buckinghamshire) to show that no-one should feel alone or isolated in the UK’s rural communities.
New survey data reveals that over 68% of farmers in Britain have had their mental health negatively impacted by spiralling input costs, such as fuel, animal feed and fertiliser, which have been at record levels due to factors such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Commenting, Greg Smith MP, said “I am incredibly proud to represent the farmers and growers here in Buckinghamshire and I recognise the importance of protecting the mental health of our food producers and people living in our rural communities.
“The global challenges over the past few years have shown us just how important it is to have a strong farming sector, and resilient farmers are essential for a resilient food chain in Britain.
“Taking mental health seriously ought to be a priority for everyone, and this new data suggests that while farming is a fantastic industry to work in, pressures can be incredibly challenging and support across the board is critical.”
