A NEW survey shows the extent to which farmers' mental health are being affected by spiralling costs. 

Cotswolds MP Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown heard from farming charities recently, following a new survey from the National Farmers Union which highlighted the additional challenges faced by rural communities. 

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Cotswolds MP Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP met with farmers to discuss mental health issues

The NFU convened rural mental health charities at an event in Parliament, bringing together a wide group of stakeholders and experts to discuss rural mental health, the ways that it can be improved, and the support needed to tackle the root causes of the challenges faced by farmers.

New survey data reveals that over 68 per cent of farmers in Britain have had their mental health negatively impacted by spiralling input costs, such as fuel, animal feed and fertiliser, which have been at record levels due to factors such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP said “I am incredibly proud to represent the farmers and growers here in the Cotswolds and to help highlight the problem of mental health problems in the industry.  

“Taking mental health seriously ought to be a priority for everyone, and this new data suggests that while farming is a fantastic industry to work in, pressures can be incredibly challenging, especially when working long hours alone, and support across the board is critical."