What if you were enjoying a day out at an agricultural show and saw a young farmer standing blindfolded carrying a large sign saying:
“95% of young farmers in the UK say that poor mental health is the biggest hidden danger in the industry. If you agree, give me a hug or take a flower.”
What would you do?
The Farm Safety Foundation team did just that at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair and filmed the candid reactions of passers-by which can be seen in their new hero film released today for Day One of the charity’s annual Mind Your Head campaign.
The charity cast farm safety ambassador Daniel Boomer as the star of this year’s hero film. Six-foot tall Northern Ireland young farmer Daniel has lost several close friends to suicide and has been working with the charity to increase knowledge and awareness of poor mental health at his university Harper Adams as well as beyond.
Stephanie adds: “Filming took place on a particularly cold day but this didn’t stop the warmth of the crowd from shining through. When we approached the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society with our idea, they were supportive and welcoming, but nothing prepared us for the reactions of those visitors who came up and shared the love and shared their stories. For anyone who doubts that our farming community is truly special, please take 90 seconds, watch the video and be inspired.”
We would like to thank Laura Williams and Clare James from Royal Welsh Agricultural Society, Sam from Oatey Media, Daniel Boomer and all the lovely people attending the Winter Fair for their help in filming this video.
WATCH HERE
