Fit2Farm: Hard work and long hours take toll on farmers
Jessica and I are delighted to be involved with this initiative – which is seeking to expose the deep pressures faced by those who farm our countryside. This story tells us:
Hard work and long hours are taking their toll on British farmers and their families, who are looking for ways to improve their work-life balance, a major Farmers Weekly survey reveals.
On average farmers work a 65-hour week – far exceeding the UK national average of 37 hours. Some growers and livestock producers work in excess of 100 hours, according to the study – with many rarely taking a day off, let alone an annual holiday.
Carried out in association with Bayer and Isuzu, the survey is being published this autumn to mark the start of a Farmers Weekly campaign called Fit2Farm – highlighting the importance of healthy farmers to healthy farm businesses.
Over the coming months we will show ways that farmers can maintain and enhance their physical health and mental wellbeing – achieving a better balance between work, outside interests and time spent with family and friends – and how that can benefit the farm business.
The Fit2Farm campaign has its roots in a farm health forum hosted by the Worshipful Company of Farmers (WCF). Held last year, the event brought together farm leaders, rural charities and health experts to highlight the benefits of a healthy lifestyle for farmers, their families and businesses.
We have signed up Welsh rugby international Dan Lydiate as an ambassador and public face of the Fit2Farm campaign. A beef and sheep producer as well as a 2013 British and Irish Lion, he is well aware of the challenges faced by farmers.
Farm charities are supporting the Fit2Farm campaign. As well as WCF, Farmers Weekly has joined forces with the Farming Community Network and the Farm Safety Foundation as charity partners. Industry leaders are also lending their support.
NFU vice-president Stuart Roberts said: “The old ‘farming isn’t a job, it’s a way of life’ stuff is too often an excuse for accepting conditions and work arrangements no other industry would accept. For me, holidays with the family are critically important.”