Sam Stables and Louise Layton join us for an honest conversation about the tougher side of farming. Why in some cases, we are still not always very good at talking about mental health, the importance of opening up when things get difficult, and why simply telling a mate you are struggling can make all the difference.
Mental health is not always the easiest subject to talk about in farming, but Sam Stables and Louise Layton know first hand why those conversations matter.
WATCH NOW: "Baler twine can't fix everything": Sam Stables and Louise Layton on mental health in farming | For Flock's Sake Ep. 6In this September episode of For Flock's Sake, the Farmers Guardian podcast, hosts Tom Ryder and Ellie Layton are in Herefordshire to hear from farmer and co-founder of We Are Farming Minds, Sam Stables, and charity volunteer Louise Layton.
READ NOW: Jeff and Katie Aiken: Stockmanship, success and starting again | For Flock's Sake Ep3
Sam talks openly about his farming system, mental health struggles and what led him to set up the charity, while Louise shares her experience of supporting her husband Richard through his mental health struggles before his death by suicide.
There is plenty of farming in the conversation, from Sam's route into farming and his Duchy tenancy while Louise shares how as a family they have raised over £100,000 in Richard's memory.
Together, they explore the realities of mental health in agriculture, the impact it can have on individuals and families, and what can be done to ensure people do not feel they have to face their struggles alone.
Mental health and suicide support
If this episode raises concerns for you or someone you know, support is available.
PAPYRUS HOPELINE247
For people under 35 experiencing thoughts of suicide, or anyone concerned about a young person. Call 0300 102 2470 or text HOPE to 88247. Available 24/7.
Samaritans
Free, confidential support for anyone who needs someone to talk to. Call 116 123, free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Mind
Information, advice and support for people experiencing mental health problems. Mind's support line is 0300 102 1234, open Monday to Friday, 9am–6pm.
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
Support for anyone who is struggling or affected by suicide. Call 0800 58 58 58, 5pm–midnight every day.
We Are Farming Minds
Free, confidential support for the farming community in Herefordshire. Call 0808 802 0070 or text 07786 203 130. The support line is available 24/7.
RABI (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution)
Provides practical, financial and emotional support to people in farming. Call 0800 188 4444, free and available 24/7.
RSABI (Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution)
Provides practical, emotional and financial support to people working in Scottish agriculture, including farmers, crofters and farm workers. Call 0808 1234 555, free and available 24/7.
The DPJ Foundation
Provides confidential mental health support to people working in agriculture in Wales through its Share the Load service. Call 0800 587 4262 or text 07860 048799.
