Story Highlight
– David Exwood will speak at Yorkshire Farming Conference.
– Focus on farm safety and mental health support.
– Keynote speaker: bestselling author James Rebanks.
– Trade show offers diverse agricultural networking opportunities.
– Tickets priced at £25 with group discounts available.
Full Story
David Exwood, an eminent advocate for UK agriculture, will be contributing to the upcoming Yorkshire Farming Conference as one of its prominent speakers. The event, orchestrated by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, is scheduled to occur on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate. Attendees can anticipate a diverse programme, encompassing a substantial trade exhibition, ample networking opportunities, alongside various discussions and practical workshops designed for those involved in the agricultural sector.
As a practicing farmer based in West Sussex, Mr Exwood will lead the session titled “Farming Safe – Farming Strong.” This innovative session aims to provide a novel perspective on the crucial topics of farm safety and mental wellbeing, moving away from traditional lecture formats. Instead, it will focus on sharing authentic experiences and offering pragmatic tools designed to benefit all members of the farming community. This format encourages a candid and uplifting dialogue centered around the real-life experiences of those within the industry.
In addressing the significant safety concerns in agriculture, David Exwood, who also serves as the deputy president of the National Farmers Union, emphasised the dual nature of farming as a fulfilling yet perilous profession. “Farming is one of the most rewarding professions, but it remains one of the most dangerous. Too many families are left devastated by preventable accidents each year and that’s why it’s vital we keep talking openly about safety and wellbeing as an industry,” he commented. He offered insights into the NFU’s campaign which urges its members to “Take Five on farm safety,” underscoring that even minor adjustments—such as pausing to reflect, wearing safety helmets, and meticulously checking machinery—can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
“I’m looking forward to the discussion and to working together on building the cultural shift we need. By sharing our experiences and focusing on practical steps, we can build the confidence to make safety an everyday habit so we can all get home safe at the end of the working day,” he added.
The “Farming Safe – Farming Strong” initiative is spearheaded by the Yorkshire Rural Support Network. It aims to address the array of physical hazards while also placing a spotlight on mental health—a crucial but often overlooked aspect of farming. Jill Gray, a local farmer and chair of the Yorkshire Rural Support Network, expressed hope that the session would motivate attendees to seek assistance should they be experiencing mental health challenges. “Farmers, we are not indestructible. It’s okay to ask for support,” she remarked, reinforcing the need for community and support within the agricultural sector.
In addition to the safety-focused discussions, the conference will host an extensive trade exhibition, presenting numerous agricultural businesses, associations, and charities dedicated to aiding farming families. Notable organisations such as the Addington Fund, Gamekeepers Welfare Trust, RABI, Samaritans, and The Farming Community Network will be available to provide expert support and resources for attendees.
The agenda for the day includes critical discussions surrounding pressing issues such as policy advancements, the vital role of farmers in the broader food supply chain, and methods to enhance agricultural efficiency through innovative technologies and strategic crop selections.
Among the speakers at this year’s conference will be Cumbrian farmer and acclaimed author James Rebanks, who is set to deliver the keynote address. He will share the stage with other distinguished figures from the agricultural field, including Nuffield Scholar Tamara Hall, Managing Director of Molescroft Farm; rural affairs journalist Anna Jones; as well as founder and Managing Director of Just Farmers; and arable farmer Guy Poskitt, known for his award-winning agricultural enterprise specialising in producing carrots, parsnips, and potatoes.
Open to everyone involved in agriculture, the Yorkshire Farming Conference is set to take place from 9am to 5pm at the Great Yorkshire Events Centre. A key benefit for participating farmers is the opportunity to earn BASIS and NRoSO (Continuing Professional Development) points during the event.
This conference marks a significant initiative by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, uniting various farming networks including Future Farmers of Yorkshire, the Farmer Scientist Network, the Yorkshire Rural Support Network, Women in Farming Network, and the Yorkshire Food, Farming and Rural Network. These networks are coordinated and overseen by the Society, operating with the goal of supporting individuals within the agricultural landscape.
Interested participants can purchase tickets for the Yorkshire Farming Conference exclusively in advance for the price of £25 plus VAT. There is a discounted rate available for groups of ten or more. To secure tickets, as well as to stay updated on further announcements regarding the event’s line-up, one can visit yorkshirefarmingconference.co.uk.
Our Thoughts
The article highlights the importance of addressing farm safety and mental health within the agricultural community. To avoid preventable accidents, it is essential to enhance compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which mandates that employers ensure the health and safety of their employees. Key safety lessons include the necessity for proactive risk assessments and safety training tailored specifically to the farming environment.
Implementing the “Take Five on farm safety” initiative is a practical approach to promote safety consciousness, encouraging simple yet effective measures such as equipment checks and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). The sessions promoting open dialogue regarding mental health also align with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, emphasizing the importance of psychological well-being in maintaining overall safety.
To prevent similar incidents in the future, agricultural organizations should implement regular safety workshops and mental health support sessions, reinforcing a culture of safety that prioritizes both physical and mental well-being. Ensuring compliance with existing health and safety regulations and fostering an environment where farmers feel empowered to seek help can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall farming conditions.
