Search begins for new Welsh farm safety ambassadors
© Tim Scrivener Farmers across Wales are being urged to become farm safety ambassadors to help reduce life-changing accidents and encourage safer working practices across the industry.
The Wales Farm Safety Partnership (WFSP) has launched a recruitment drive ahead of Farm Safety Week (20-24 July), which this year focuses on the people rather than statistics alone.
See also: How simple steps can protect and save farm lives and others
Farming remains one of the UK’s most hazardous occupations.
More than 30 people died in farm-related incidents over the past year.
Health and Safety Executive (HSE) figures show that half of all work-related fatalities between 2020-21 and 2024-25 involved workers aged over 60.
The latest HSE Fatal Injuries in Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing report also recorded 23 farmworker deaths and four members of the public killed on GB farms in 2024-25, including two children.
Better safety awareness
The WFSP is looking for farmers and agricultural workers willing to share their experiences, support safety campaigns and attend industry events to encourage better safety awareness among their peers.
Current farm safety ambassador Alun Elidyr said conversations between farmers could have a real impact.
“As a farm safety ambassador, I’ve seen first-hand the value of farmers speaking openly with other farmers about the everyday risks we face.
“It isn’t about lecturing people — it’s about sharing real experiences, encouraging small changes and helping to protect lives, families and the future of our farms.”
Sian Tandy, head of communications for Farming Connect, said those working in agriculture were often best placed to influence behaviour.
“We know that the most powerful messages come from within the industry itself.
“This is an opportunity for individuals who care about their community to help influence change, support others and make a lasting impact on farm safety across Wales.”
Getting involved
The partnership is encouraging anyone passionate about improving safety standards and promoting good practice on farms to submit an expression of interest.
For further information and to apply, visit the Farming Connect website or contact Sian Tandy on sian.tandy@mentera.cymru.
