Suicide prevention campaign targets farming communities

A new suicide prevention campaign is encouraging farmers to look out for one another and have open conversations about mental health.

Launched by suicide prevention charity Papyrus at the Great Yorkshire Show on Tuesday (14 July), the “Go to the gate, chat to a mate” initiative aims to raise awareness of the support available to people in agriculture who may be struggling.

See also: First-generation farmer shares mental health insights

The project encourages farmers and rural workers to recognise when something is wrong and to start conversations that could help save lives.

James Parkes, area manager at Papyrus, said: “Farmers already notice when something is not right. The ewe standing apart from the flock. The crop that doesn’t look quite right.

“That instinct for noticing applies to people too.”

He urged anyone concerned about a friend or colleague to ask how they are feeling and not be afraid to ask again if the first response seems dismissive.

“If you’re worried about someone, check in. And if they say they’re fine, ask again.

“That second question is often where the honest answer lives.”

Ask twice

Mr Parkes also stressed that asking someone directly whether they were thinking about suicide would not increase the risk.

“Asking does not plant the idea. It opens a door. You do not need to have the answers. You just need to not walk away.”

The campaign forms part of a wider suicide prevention programme supported by the mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, and is part-funded by the York and North Yorkshire combined authority.

Papyrus plans to reach farming communities through agricultural shows, livestock markets and other rural events, where it will provide information, talks and resources promoting help-seeking behaviour.

The charity is also appealing for volunteers to help reduce stigma, strengthen rural networks and raise awareness of available support.