Story Highlight
– UK farmers’ mental health hits lowest level in four years.
– 47 suicides reported among farmers in past year.
– Campaign aims to raise suicide awareness in farming.
– New eLearning module launched for mental health training.
– Farming faces unique pressures impacting mental wellbeing.
Full Story
Mental health among agricultural workers in the UK has deteriorated significantly, reaching its lowest point in four years. Recent statistics highlight a troubling reality: there were 47 documented suicides within the farming community over the past year. This decline in mental wellbeing is particularly pronounced among farmers aged over 61, who have traditionally been viewed as a stable demographic within the industry.
Research conducted involving 765 farmers revealed that their mental health status falls short when compared to the general populace in the UK. In light of these concerning trends, the Farm Safety Foundation, known as Yellow Wellies, in association with the Royal Foundation’s National Suicide Prevention Network (NSPN), has labelled this issue as “the biggest hidden problem” facing the agricultural sector.
To tackle this pressing issue, Yellow Wellies is launching a range of initiatives aimed at raising awareness and promoting mental health support during their ninth annual Mind Your Head Week, taking place from February 9 to February 13. The campaign encourages farmers, agricultural organisations, educational institutions, and Young Farmers Clubs to engage in meaningful conversations that could save lives. As part of this initiative, a new eLearning module focused on ‘Suicide Awareness & Prevention’ will be introduced. This module is designed to help participants identify warning signs, use compassionate language, and develop straightforward safety plans to support those in need.
Caitlin Riddell, a 35-year-old farmer from Berwickshire, is one of the voices behind this campaign. Her personal experience as a survivor of a suicide attempt in 2019 has motivated her to advocate for mental health awareness in agriculture. Having been involved in farming since her teenage years and now married to a farmer, Riddell understands firsthand the immense pressures of the industry. “It has always been a highly demanding field. Farming is not a conventional job; it is a lifestyle that often requires endless hours,” she explained.
Reflecting on her journey, Riddell recalled how the stress of her daily routine compounded over time. “There was a stage in March 2019 where I felt trapped in despair. The passion I held for farming began to feel like a double-edged sword,” she shared. Fortunately, Riddell has since embarked on a path of recovery and is now a mother of two with another child on the way. Yet, she expresses deep concern for the future of farming, stating, “The challenges seem insurmountable at times, and I question whether this life is one I would want for my children under current circumstances.”
This sentiment echoes widespread frustrations within the farming community, especially amid ongoing protests against Labour party policies affecting their livelihoods, notably concerning inheritance tax reforms. These changes could potentially cost farmers up to £520 million annually, a burden many believe jeopardises the existence of family-run farms that have operated for generations.
Another poignant narrative comes from Sue Farmer, a mother who lost her son, Ted, to suicide in 2023. Ted, who was devoted to the outdoors and involved with farming through his godparents, made a heartfelt call to her the evening before his death—a conversation that would haunt her forever. “He expressed his love for me and apologised. I wish I had probed deeper into what he was really feeling,” reflected Farmer, who now amplifies the importance of open dialogue and support networks in preventing such tragedies.
Sue Farmer advocates for regular check-ins among community members to foster understanding and support surrounding mental health. Her son was a fervent supporter of the Yellow Wellies initiative, and she aims to continue his legacy by raising awareness regarding mental health in agriculture. “Farming is more than just employment; it is fraught with long hours, isolation, and immense pressure that often remains unspoken,” she expressed.
Stephanie Berkeley, manager of the Farm Safety Foundation, emphasised the progress that has been made over the last nine years in creating awareness but acknowledged that much work remains, particularly in suicide prevention efforts. “Despite the support that exists within the rural community, there is an urgent need for tailored suicide prevention training that resonates with the specific realities faced by farmers,” she noted.
Berkeley underlined the unique challenges inherent in farming—such as financial stress, isolation, and the weight of familial responsibilities—which can make discussing mental health issues particularly tough. “Within rural settings, we need methods that are authentic, relatable, and grounded in real experiences to encourage frank conversations about suicide,” she added.
As 2026 unfolds, Yellow Wellies aims to advance its agenda on suicide prevention, calling for communities to act earlier and support one another. “We must acknowledge the unseen burdens that too many farming families are bearing silently,” Berkeley stated. The campaign’s message is clear: together, communities can cultivate the knowledge and tools necessary to identify warning signs and foster a culture of proactive support.
The initiative will include the release of a poignant film that highlights real-life experiences, portraying the resilience and strength found within farming communities. “This year’s focus will be on education, resilience, and making a difference, rooted in a foundation of hope that can ultimately save lives,” Berkeley concluded.
Our Thoughts
To prevent the tragic mental health crisis highlighted in the article, several improvements in health and safety practices could be implemented in the agricultural sector. Firstly, a more proactive approach to mental health training and support could have been integrated, adhering to the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which mandates employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees.
The introduction of tailored suicide prevention training specifically for agricultural workers remains essential, as current measures seem insufficient to address the unique challenges faced by farmers, such as isolation and financial stress. Additionally, risk assessments should explicitly consider psychological risks alongside physical hazards, in line with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
Improved communication strategies within farming communities are vital to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. Encouraging regular check-ins and supportive conversations among peers can create a more supportive work environment. Lastly, collaborating with mental health organizations to develop ongoing support programs could foster resilience and provide crucial resources for those in need, ultimately reducing the incidence of suicide in the agricultural sector.
