Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border, has shown support for rural mental health by hearing from farming charities and recognising the additional challenges faced by rural communities which have been highlighted in a new survey from the National Farmers Union (NFU).
The NFU convened rural mental health charities at an event in Parliament, bringing together a wide group of stakeholders and experts to discuss rural mental health, the ways that it can be improved, and the support needed to tackle the root causes of the challenges faced by farmers. Dr Hudson met with NFU Minette Batters as well as rural mental health leaders from charities such as the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution and YANA.
New survey data reveal that over 68% of farmers in Britain have had their mental health negatively impacted by spiralling input costs, such as fuel, animal feed and fertiliser, which have been at record levels due to factors such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border, said:
"Representing England's largest rural constituency, I fully understand the need to better protect the mental health of everyone living and working in our communities.
"The global challenges over the past few years have shown us just how important it is to have a strong farming sector with resilient and supported farmers driving forward the British food chain.
"New NFU data confirm work I've undertaken on the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee that shows while farming is a fantastic industry to work in, pressures can be incredibly challenging and support across the board is critical."
Dr Hudson is a hugely passionate mental health campaigner and this week's partnership with the NFU follows recent work, including:
- A wide-ranging speech on the need to support mental health services: www.neilhudson.org.uk/news/dr-neil-hudson-speaks-out-young-people-and-rural-communities-during-commons-mental-health
- The publication of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs report on Rural Mental Health that was instigated by Dr Hudson: www.neilhudson.org.uk/news/veterinary-mp-dr-neil-hudson-instigated-new-efra-committee-report-highlighting-acute-pressures
- Dr Hudson and the 3 Dads Walking securing confirmation that suicide awareness' inclusion on the curriculum is being reviewed www.neilhudson.org.uk/news/dr-neil-hudson-mp-and-3-dads-walking-meet-education-secretary-their-campaign-save-more-young
