Farmers' wellbeing initiative launched
Representatives from Carlow County Council, Leinster Marts and Healthy Carlow pictured at the launch of the Farmer Wellbeing Programme at Leinster Co-Operative Marts, Carlow
A HEALTH and wellbeing initiative for the Carlow farming community began last week and will run over six weeks with events focusing on crucial topics related to farmer health, safety and wellbeing.
The unique and much-anticipated programme kicked off last Tuesday at Leinster Marts, Killeshin Road, Carlow. The programme is funded by the Department of Agriculture and will feature six events throughout October and November. Members of the farming community are invited to attend free informative talks, which address important issues such as farm succession and will-making, gambling addiction, coping with grief and sudden death, coping with the pressures of farming, managing time and safety on the farm.
Each of the talks will conclude with a hot dinner and an opportunity to chat with speakers and fellow farmers. The series will culminate in a Wellbeing Day, complete with information stands, wellbeing packs, health supports and more resources for local farmers.
“Farmer physical and mental health often take a back seat, with the important tasks of managing a farm taking precedent,” said Michael Brennan, director of services, Carlow County Council. “What we aim to do with this series of talks is to support the farming community, to provide the information they need and guidance to enable them to manage these stressors and concerns in the best way for them.”
Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council cllr Fergal Browne shared his enthusiasm: “This is a fantastic programme we are piloting and we hope to engage the farming community around the county. Farmer Wellbeing Day on 11 November in Leinster Marts will be a unique opportunity to meet organisations, agri-specialists, get advice and information.
“We will have free farm first-aid kits and lots more on the day. It’s an opportunity to address the many challenges faced by farmers today, from mental health to safety on the farm,” said cllr Browne. The programme is supported by a range of key stakeholders, including Carlow County Council, Healthy Carlow, Leinster Marts, County Carlow Development Partnership, Embrace Farm, Teagasc, IFA, Macra na Feirme and Kelly Agri Consultants.
