SIR Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP has spoken of the importance of farmers' mental health amid rising industry pressures.

The Cotswold MP has shown support for rural mental health by hearing from farming charities and recognising the additional challenges faced by rural communities, which have been highlighted in a new survey from the National Farmers Union.

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.

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.

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.

“I was pleased to have the opportunity at the event hosted by the NFU to speak to charity experts, part of the job of an MP is to help constituents by linking them up with the help they need.”