Excessive vitality, gas and fertiliser prices are taking their toll on the psychological well being of UK farmers, with greater than two-thirds of these responding to an NFU survey admitting that their wellbeing was being compromised.
The survey outcomes, which additionally mirror the unfavorable psychological well being results of rural crime and unfairness within the provide chain, are revealed as MPs meet farming charities and campaigners on the annual NFU Summer time Reception on the Home of Commons on Tuesday 6 June.
See additionally: Farmers share their psychological wellbeing ideas
Greater than two-thirds (68%) of farmers surveyed mentioned excessive enter prices had negatively affected their psychological well being, whereas for 61% it was unfairness within the provide chain, and for nearly 50% rural crime.
For a lot of farmers, it’s bovine TB that impacts their psychological wellbeing.
NFU vice-president David Exwood mentioned the pressures on farmers have been “extremely difficult”.
“Whereas we’re beginning to see a tradition change inside our sector, the place speaking about psychological well being is changing into an increasing number of accepted, there are nonetheless too many farmers and growers merely ignoring the indicators and struggling on in silence.”
How is bovine TB affecting farmers?
The Farming Group Community (FCN) desires to get a greater understanding of the impact bovine TB is having on farmers’ well being and wellbeing.
The agricultural charity has launched a survey searching for suggestions on the emotional, monetary and bodily results of TB, and the long-term ramifications these could have on the farmer, farm household or farm enterprise.
North Wales farmer and FCN ambassador Will Evans mentioned the findings would assist the charity and the broader business to develop focused help.
The survey is open for responses till mid-August.
