Health crisis grows for isolated North Yorkshire farmers

Farmers across North Yorkshire are facing a deepening health crisis, according to a new report, with many delaying care due to isolation, workload, and stigma.

A survey conducted by Healthwatch North Yorkshire found that farming communities are increasingly struggling to access healthcare and report “worsening mental health”.

The report, based on responses from 220 people in the farming community, highlights significant barriers that prevent farmers from seeking medical help.

See also: Farming charities highlight resources to help tackle stress

These include distance from services, demanding workloads, financial pressure, and a persistent stigma surrounding mental health.

One farmer explained: “There is nothing wrong – until we can’t get out of bed in the morning!”

Another said: “You don’t admit weakness, especially if it’s mental health weakness.”

Healthwatch found that 74% of farmers experience back, joint, knee, shoulder or muscle pain.

Stress and anxiety affect 42%, while 31% report sleep problems.

Yet many delay or avoid treatment due to limited time and concerns about how mental health disclosures could affect their ability to work.

Some farmers even said they turn to their vet before their GP. “I haven’t time to go to the doctor. It’s easier to ask the vet,” said one.

Others cited a lack of trust in healthcare professionals: “I just feel like health professionals have no idea about the farming way of life.”

The NHS Humber and North Yorkshire integrated care board is now introducing several initiatives aimed at supporting farming communities, including a new “healthy farmer” project planned for Hawes Farmers’ Mart in Richmond.

Mobile health units and rural drop-in clinics are among the proposed measures.

According to the report, 57% of farmers want health drop-ins at auction marts, while 46% said more flexible appointment times would make it easier to seek help.

“Farmers won’t make the time to go to the doctors, but it would help if the nurses came to them,” it said.

North Yorkshire is one of England’s most rural counties, with more than 6,000 farms.

The report calls for improved outreach, better training for health workers, and stronger communication to ensure farming communities receive the care they need.