Pop-up farmer health check scheme extended at Rugby market
Nurse Gill Fenner at Rugby Market © Warwickshire Rural Hub A scheme run by Warwickshire Rural Hub and grant aided by The Royal Countryside Fund (formerly the Prince’s Countryside Fund) is to continue this autumn, providing pop-up health and wellbeing services for farmers at local livestock markets.
The extension of the scheme builds on the success of 10 events between January 2022 and March 2023, which saw 300 farmers engaging with nurses and health professionals in livestock mart cafes, village halls and during farmer meetings.
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Farmers were encouraged to share any health concerns, either privately or informally, with two senior nurses from Parish Nursing Ministries UK.
They also took blood pressure readings and gave health advice on a range of topics, including stress and depression, cancer, sleep issues and PSA testing (for prostate cancer).
Warwickshire Rural Hub co-ordinator Jane Hampson commented: “Due to the success of these 10 events grant aided by The Royal Countryside Fund, we will be continuing to visit Rugby Livestock Mart cafe on a bi-monthly basis.
“Our next two events are being held on 4 September and 20 November 2023.
“The events are open to any farmer who wants to chat to a nurse, enjoy a free massage or receive welfare advice – just come down to the Jersey Pavilion cafe between 9am and 1pm on these two dates.”
Farmers attending the health check-ups will also be able to book a free massage with a qualified practitioner, who can discuss any muscular or skeletal concerns.