MP Tim Farron to meet Minister over mental health support for farmers
Meeting to discuss challenges faced by isolated farmers in Cumbria.
Local MP Tim Farron has secured a crucial meeting with the Minister for Health Innovation and Safety to address mental health support for farmers.
The announcement was made during a session in the House of Commons.
Farron highlighted the significant mental health challenges faced by farmers, particularly in Cumbria, where the suicide rate among men is reported to be twice the national average. He attributed these statistics to factors such as isolation and rurality.
In his speech, Tim Farron underlined the vital role of The Farmer Network, a support organisation assisting farmers and their families in Cumbria, the Yorkshire Dales, and Northumberland. He urged the Minister to collaborate with him and The Farmer Network to provide mental health solutions for farmers.
According to Farron, 25% of farmers live below the poverty line, facing isolation and high stress levels. He stressed the importance of accessible mental health solutions for this community.
Responding to the MP's appeal, Preet Kaur Gill, MP, commended Farron for addressing the issue. She confirmed her willingness to meet with him, recognising the ongoing efforts to improve mental health support under the national strategy, which includes an additional £3.6 million investment in suicide prevention in areas of England with high suicide risks among men.
Gill also mentioned partnerships with initiatives like the Premier League’s Together Against Suicide, aimed at reaching men in need of support. She expressed her anticipation to collaborate with Farron and gain insights from the discussion.