Photo exhibition shows farming mental health support needs

© Paul Gutherson

A photography project dedicated to supporting mental wellbeing in the farming industry is set to go on display in an exhibition at Spout Yard Park Gallery, Louth, from 8-14 October, to coincide with World Mental Health Day on 10 October.

Sponsored by potato supply chain specialists AKP Group, the “Take One a Day” project was created by amateur photographer Paul Gutherson in November 2020, after he unexpectedly discovered a person who had died after taking their own life during a morning dog walk in Louth, Lincolnshire.

See also: Mental health survey reveals factors affecting young farmers

Since 2016 suicide rates have increased in rural areas, with mental health provisions often spread thinly.

According to the Office of National Statistics, there were 36 suicides recorded in England and Wales among those working in the farming and agricultural industry in 2021.

Meanwhile, 22 farmworkers lost their lives in fatal accidents in 2021/22, highlighting the underlying need for mental health resources and support.

One a day

Paul began taking one photo a day as a way of reconnecting with his local countryside, posting the pictures on social media daily.

He said: “Sometimes the photograph itself is not that important. It is the purposeful act of seeking something beautiful.

“Shutting out negative self-talk through the discipline of looking, especially on difficult days, is what becomes important.”

Paul’s pictures will be on display alongside work by photographic artist Richard Ansett.

AKP Group managing director Richard Arundel said: “We’re driven by people, and as partners to farmers and growers across the country, we are no strangers to the prevalent mental health challenges within farming.

“It can be an isolating and lonely industry at times, and we are extremely proud to be supporting and championing this impactful exhibition and all that it stands for.”

The ‘Take One a Day’ photo exhibition will be available to view at Spout Yard Park Gallery, Louth, from 8-14 October.