Mental Health initiatives for Mayo farmers receives key funding

Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD has welcomed funding of €20,000 for “Taking Stock”, a new initiative by Mayo Mental Health Associations which aims to provide awareness and support for farmers across the county.

A total of 40 projects nationally were selected for funding of €1.68m following an open call for proposals for farm safety, health and wellbeing projects by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, and Minister of State with special responsibility for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture, Michael Healy-Rae TD.

The projects will make an important contribution to promoting farmer safety, health and wellbeing among farmers, farming families, farm workers and agricultural contractors who engage directly with the projects.

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Minister Dillon said: “I am delighted to see that among the projects, €20,000 has been allocated to the “Taking Stock” initiative in Mayo. This was launched last March in a collaborative initiative by Mayo County Council, Teagasc, the HSE, Croí, Mental Health Ireland and the IFA to support the health and wellbeing of farmers in Mayo. 

‘It aims to encourage farmers to prioritise their physical and mental health, financial planning, farm succession and overall work-life balance. Through expert advice, real farmer stories and access to resources, “Taking Stock” is designed to help farmers make informed decisions that will benefit themselves and their families.

“I wish all groups involved in this worthwhile project the very best of luck as they extend this initiative which is encouraging farmers to prioritise their health and financial security,” concluded Minister Dillon.