With farm safety week by Yellow Wellies taking place at the end of last month, we thought it appropriate to focus on the importance of health, safety and well-being on the farm. In the often lonely and full-time life of farming, it is no surprise that the HSE’s Fatal Injuries Report revealed 20 agriculture workers lost their lives on farms in 2019/20. This is a decrease on the total of 32 for the previous year – but still no reason for complacency. That’s why farm safety week plays an important role in raising awareness via social media of the concerns and importance of safety in the agricultural world.
With heavy machinery and adverse working conditions making up a significant part of a farmer’s daily life, danger seems an unavoidable, ever-present shadow. But by implementing safety measures and respecting the importance of protective clothing, footwear and clear signage around the farm, these risks can be managed and reduced. We've also partnered with reputed course provider LANTRA, to offer farm safety courses to our customers.
However, it’s the mental health and wellbeing of our farmers and families that runs far deeper and has longer lasting shockwaves when unaddressed and undermanaged. As aforementioned, many farmers lead solitary lives, a far cry from the commercial office world where team spirit and people development is a part of daily life and of increasing importance. Although regarded by many as living idyllic lives by urban city dwellers, the harsh reality of keeping a farming establishment above water is far from idyllic. Although punctuated with ‘idyllic’ moments, the constant background pressure of fluctuating sale prices, weather conditions and disease are never far in the life of a farmer.
Here is where selfless organisations like the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) offer round-the-clock support to so many within the farming community. It’s truly touching to read the countless stories and lives transformed by such organisations – and no one is exempt from receiving their support. It’s unsurprising that reaching out for support is perceived as weak and humiliating, but the consequences that could be prevented are unprecedented.
Take a look at the work of the RABI and Yellow Wellies, to read about the many farmers and families who have been thrown a lifeline by these truly inspirational organisations!