Farmers are being urged to take time out of their busy spring schedules and put their mental health and wellbeing first as part of The Big Farm Tea Break.
Organised by parents Lynda and Andy Eadon, who lost their son Len to suicide in 2022, the event, due to run across March 24-30, aims to connect everyone working in rural communities.
Mr Eadon, who was speaking to Farmers Guardian during Mind Your Head Week and ahead of what would have been Len's 26th birthday, February 14), said: "Spring is the time of year on a farm when it seems everywhere you look there is a job waiting.
READ NOW: Mental health in focus in Mind Your Head week
"Lambing, calving and tractor work all add to the pressure, it is easy to feel there is no time to breathe.
"Due to this pressure, we miss out on visits to the local shop, markets, Young Farmers or the pub.
"Those communities we are part of are still there and keen to always be there for you.
"It is amazing how stopping for a conversation puts everything into perspective for you and people around you."
A reminder of the support available to all those who need it. ❤️❤️
— Farmers Guardian (@FarmersGuardian) February 11, 2025
This week, @yellowwelliesuk will be running its eighth annual #MindYourHead campaign to raise awareness and break down the stigma attached to poor mental health. 👏🧠
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The Eadons' charity Len's Light, which has raised more than £250,000 for farming causes, was honoured at last year's British Farming Awards, winning Outstanding Contribution to British Agriculture.
Mrs Eadon added: "During the Big Farm Tea Break, let us all come together as a community. No one in the rural community should feel isolated or alone.
"We would like everyone who takes part, be it holding a tea break, phoning a friend or catching up at the market, to take some photos and post to social media using #lenslight or #bigfarmteabreak."
The event is being supported by Morrisons which offers farmers 25% off in their cafes every Tuesday, known as 'Tractor Tuesdays', an initiative launched with Lynda and Andy Eadon in 2024.
READ NOW: Morrisons launches 'Tractor Tuesdays' with discounts for farmers in its cafes
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