£10k mental health support boost for farming communities

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Farmers and rural residents across Caerphilly are set to benefit from expanded mental health support after a charity secured £10,000 to extend its Rural Communities Support Service.

The service, run by Mind in Gwent, was previously only available in Monmouthshire. But now, thanks to money from The Hospital Saturday Fund, it will reach farming and rural communities across Gwent, including Caerphilly, over the next 12 months.

The expansion comes amid growing concern about the mental health of people working in agriculture.

Research by The Farm Safety Foundation shows UK farmers’ mental wellbeing has fallen to its lowest level in four years. The study also found that wellbeing among farmers aged 40 and above is at a four-year low, while those aged 61 and above – traditionally considered one of the most resilient groups – have seen the sharpest decline.

Separate figures from the Office for National Statistics show that 47 suicides were recorded among people working in farming and agriculture across England and Wales in 2024, a 7% increase from 2022.

Although the Rural Support Centre is based at Raglan Livestock Market, it is regularly used by farmers and agricultural workers from neighbouring areas, including Caerphilly.

The centre offers a confidential space where people can speak to staff who understand the realities of rural life. Alongside practical support with issues such as benefits, housing and financial concerns, visitors can access wellbeing workers and qualified counsellors experienced in supporting people in the farming sector.

Jaime Devine, head of housing, tenancy and supported living services at Mind in Gwent, said the funding marks a significant step in widening access to support.

He said: “Securing the maximum £10,000 grant from The Hospital Saturday Fund is a significant achievement for Mind in Gwent and a huge vote of confidence in the work we do.

“For too long, geography and funding boundaries have created barriers for people living in rural communities. We’ve seen situations where farming families needed support but couldn’t access it because of where they lived. This funding will help us overcome those barriers and ensure more people can get the support they need when they need it.”

The grant will fund an additional day of outreach each week for Rural Communities Support Worker Helen Morgan, allowing her to spend more time visiting and supporting people in rural communities.

Helen said: “This funding means I’ll be able to spend more time out in our rural communities, meeting people where they are and providing practical support before problems reach crisis point.

“Our service is as varied as the people we support. One day I might be helping someone navigate welfare benefits following a life-changing illness, and the next I could be supporting a young farmer struggling with the pressures of working and living within a multi-generational family business.

“We’ve helped people facing isolation after bereavement, financial hardship, housing issues, mental health challenges and complex paperwork that can feel overwhelming. Sometimes all someone needs is a conversation and a cup of tea. Other times they need intensive support over many months.

“Rural communities are resilient and proud, but they’re often the last to ask for help. This funding gives us more time to build trusted relationships and reach more people.”