Poor mental health is a growing concern across many industries, but farming remains one of the most vulnerable. In 2021, 22 fatalities were recorded from accidents in UK farming and agriculture, yet in the same period, 36 suicides were reported [1]. This stark contrast highlights the urgent need for support that goes far beyond safety measures or insurance cover.
The Pressures Farmers Face
Farmers face pressures that few others do. The severe impacts of unpredictable weather, rising costs, livestock disease, and volatile markets all impact day-to-day life, to name a few.
Farming is more than just a business – when times are hard, a farm isn’t a simple asset that can be sold. A farm is often the family home, a legacy, and part of a farmer’s identity; it’s tied to generations of family history and responsibility. This deep emotional connection can intensify stress.
Added to this are seasonal challenges – like the long, dry summer this year – which can drive yields down and feed costs up, alongside long-term concerns like inheritance tax that may threaten family farms for future generations.
Isolation, long working hours, ever-changing regulations, and constant financial uncertainty only add to the strain. As Clarkson’s Farm has helped illustrate, the challenges of modern farming are wide-ranging and relentless. It’s not surprising that these factors often take a serious toll on farmers’ mental health.
Existing Support Within the Farming Community
There are many excellent organisations already working to support farmers’ wellbeing. Charities such as RABI, Yellow Wellies, The Farming Community Network, and We Are Farming Minds provide confidential helplines, training, financial aid, and peer support groups. These services are invaluable for farmers who feel able to reach out.
However, not everyone does. For some, stigma and pride make it difficult to admit to stress and seek help. Others may be too geographically isolated to connect with services or simply don’t know where to turn. This means many farmers continue to shoulder their struggles in silence, sometimes until they become overwhelming.
A 9-Part Video Series: Mental Health Support for Farmers
To help reach those who may not otherwise access support, McClarrons has partnered with Gallantium to sponsor Mental Health Support for Farmers – a year-long campaign producing a 9-part video series.
The series will go beyond raising awareness by providing practical advice, coping mechanisms, and actionable solutions that farmers can relate to and put into practice. Crucially, the videos will be available free of charge and anonymously, allowing farmers to access them in their own space, at a time that suits them.
Each video will feature case studies from real farmers who have adapted their work and lifestyle to manage their mental health better. Filming will take place throughout the farming calendar and across the seasons, ensuring the content reflects the true nature of life on the land.
Watch the Series
We’ll be sharing the Mental Health Support for Farmers videos here as soon as each one becomes available. We look forward to sharing them with you.
Standing With Farmers
By sponsoring this important initiative, we hope to help break down barriers, reduce stigma, and provide practical, accessible tools to those who may feel left behind.
At McClarrons, we believe mental wellbeing is just as vital as physical and financial security. Our farmers deserve all the support, care, and recognition we can give.Â
