A new suicide prevention training programme for farmers has been launched to address suicide rates in agriculture across the UK.
The initiative, led by the Farm Safety Foundation, also known as Yellow Wellies, is supported by The Royal Foundation.
It has been developed in partnership with Baton of Hope through the National Suicide Prevention Network.
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Launched during the ninth Mind Your Head week – Yellow Wellies’ annual mental health campaign – the e-learning module “Suicide Awareness & Prevention” has been designed specifically for farming audiences and is described as “the first of its kind” in the industry.
The course will be rolled out to Young Farmers’ Clubs across the UK throughout 2026.
It will train participants to recognise warning signs, use supportive and non-judgemental language, and develop simple safety plans, alongside clear signposting to specialist support services.
Farming is widely recognised as a demanding occupation shaped by long hours, hard physical work and cultural expectations of resilience.
However, these same pressures can limit opportunities for workers to speak openly about mental health challenges.
Stephanie Berkeley, Yellow Wellies manager, said: “For too long, suicide has been the silent crisis in farming, spoken about only after a tragedy. This training is designed to change that.”
According to the latest Office for National Statistics figures, 47 people working in agriculture in England and Wales died by suicide in 2024.
Effective
Yellow Wellies says suicide prevention training must reflect the realities of farming life to be effective.
As such, the new course has been built around best practice and real-life scenarios, aiming to improve awareness, prevention and response across the sector.
Ben Wilson, clinical director at Baton of Hope, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Yellow Wellies, bringing tailored suicide prevention awareness and education to the farming, agricultural and rural communities.
“Their knowledge and passion for the farming industry means our collaboration will bring hope, and improve and save lives among a resilient demographic, which very sadly currently sees far too many deaths by suicide.”
Where to get support
Lots of support is available, and suicide can be prevented.
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone.
- Samaritans Call 116 123 free, any time, day or night, or visit The Samaritans website
- You Are Not Alone Call 0300 323 0400 or email helpline@yanahelp.org
- The DPJ Foundation Call 0800 587 4262 or text 07860 048 799
- Farming Community Network Call 03000 111 999 (open every day, 7am-11pm) or visit www.fcn.org.uk
For more information on the Mind Your Head campaign, please visit the Yellow Wellies website or follow @yellowwelliesUK on social media using the hashtag #MindYourHead
