High input costs taking toll on UK farmers’ mental health
© Tim Scrivener High energy, fuel and fertiliser costs are taking their toll on the mental health of UK farmers, with more than two-thirds of those responding to an NFU survey admitting that their wellbeing was being compromised.
The survey results, which also reflect the negative mental health effects of rural crime and unfairness in the supply chain, are published as MPs meet farming charities and campaigners at the annual NFU Summer Reception at the House of Commons on Tuesday 6 June.
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More than two-thirds (68%) of farmers surveyed said high input costs had negatively affected their mental health, while for 61% it was unfairness in the supply chain, and for almost 50% rural crime.
For many farmers, it is bovine TB that affects their mental wellbeing.
NFU vice-president David Exwood said the pressures on farmers were “incredibly challenging”.
“While we are starting to see a culture change within our sector, where talking about mental health is becoming more and more accepted, there are still too many farmers and growers simply ignoring the signs and struggling on in silence.”
How is bovine TB affecting farmers?
The Farming Community Network (FCN) wants to get a better understanding of the effect bovine TB is having on farmers’ health and wellbeing.
The rural charity has launched a survey seeking feedback on the emotional, financial and physical effects of TB, and the long-term ramifications these may have on the farmer, farm family or farm business.
North Wales farmer and FCN ambassador Will Evans said the findings would help the charity and the wider industry to develop targeted support.
The survey is open for responses until mid-August.