The campaign, titled ‘Sowing Wellbeing in Every Field’, commences today (October 24), and will see Agri Aware share the stories of farmers and those working in the agricultural sector who will speak about their physical health, mental health, and farm safety journeys.
Each week, starting today, a video will be released along with expert advice and contact information related to each of the topics to raise awareness and provide support to the farming community. The second instalment will be released on Thursday October 31, and the final one will be shared on Thursday, November 7.
The campaign features Nicholas King, a beef and sheep farmer from Co. Tipperary, Kerrie Leonard, a drystock farmer and thoroughbred horse breeder from Co. Meath, and Andrew Bonham from a sheep farm in Co. Westmeath who works for Meath Farm Machinery as a sales specialist.
Nicholas features in the first video and he shares his physical health journey, detailing his struggles as an emotional eater that led to weight issues to now being physically healthy and confident in himself.
Kerrie Leonard features in part two of the campaign.
Kerrie will share her experience of being involved in a farm accident when she was six years of age to where her she is now, being active on the farm and breeding thoroughbred horses.
Andrew Bonham features in part three of the campaign.
Lastly, Andrew will share his mental health journey and detail how he went about improving his mental wellbeing whilst losing some of friends during that time to the same struggle. Speaking at the recent launch, Agri Aware chair, Shay Galvin said: “This campaign is hugely important as the three topics highlighted pass the door of many, if not all farm families.
“The three farmer stories showcased in this campaign will highlight the battles those in the farming community have to deal with head on but also how they can have overcome them.
“We hope that this campaign helps to raise awareness around farmers physical and mental wellbeing and farm safety and showcase that it is ok to reach out for help, advice and support during the tough days.
“The hope is that these stories will start the conversation for those that are struggling and give them the confidence and tools to help overcome those struggles.
“No matter the weather, we are here to help sow the seeds of wellness, in every field.”
To find out more about this campaign see agriaware.ie or on the Agri Aware social media channel, @agriaware.