Farming Community Project

The farming project aims to enhance health access and support for farmers through health checks and emotional wellbeing support. It seeks to address the higher risks of poor mental health and suicide among farmers, often linked to factors such as isolation, long working hours, and stigma surrounding mental health discussions.

The Outreach Team provides monthly health checks at six primary livestock markets and, through the South Shropshire Buttyvan initiative, offers blood pressure checks and health advice across Shropshire. The initiative was launched in response to requests from SRS (Shropshire Rural Support) and the Public Health Mental Health Team. Key partners include RABI (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution), SRS, and NFU (National Farmers Union), who work collaboratively to support the farming community and improve engagement.

Since October 2024, the team has been able to provide comprehensive health checks, including cholesterol and diabetes screenings—services the community has particularly expressed interest in. The project aims to continue offering health checks and expand its services to address broader health issues within the farming community. This includes collaboration with other health organisations, such as upcoming attendance at local events, the Diabetic Eye Screening Team, and recent meetings with Bowel and Breast Screening Practitioners to explore how outreach can better reach those in need.

Moving forward, the focus will be on targeting more rural and isolated farmers. The overarching goal is to build trust and strong relationships by maintaining a friendly, consistent presence, understanding the challenges faced by the community, and signposting available support services to improve overall health and wellbeing.