Farming families are being invited to support the Farming Community Network at a charitable breakfast on Wednesday 24th April 10am. The event is being hosted at the Tradesman’s Arms, Scoriton (TQ11 OJB) and has been promoted by the Dartmoor Hill Farm Project.
Russell Ashford is Chairman of the Hill Farm Project and said:
“Farming can be an isolated occupation and is subject to so many external influences. It’s therefore invaluable to have the support of bodies such as FCN who are able to listen, advise and hold hands at challenging times”.
The Farming Community Network (FCN) is a voluntary organization and charity that supports farmers and families within the farming community through difficult times. They have a network of over 400 volunteers across England and Wales, many of whom are involved in farming, or have close links with agriculture, and therefore have a great understanding of the issues farm workers and farming families regularly face.
Anthony Arnold is a local volunteer working with the Devon branch of FCN. He said:
“Farming can be tough, so the Farming Community Network exists to support those members of the farming community whether in poor mental and physical health, or through consequences of animal disease, finance issues or family problems”.
The current proposals for farming and forestry post Brexit will mean further restructuring of agricultural support and it remains unclear how this will impact on small traditional family farms. The removal of the Basic Payment Scheme and its replacement by a single Environmental Land Management scheme could have major implications for marginal businesses. This uncertainty has added further pressure to many businesses and heightened levels of anxiety for those that are already struggling to balance the books.
The event at Scorition is being hosted by Suzanne and Kevin Feasy at the Trademsans Arms which sits at the heart of the village. Suzanne said:
“Both Kevin and I were keen to host a charitable event for FCN to acknowledge their role in supporting rural communities. We recognize that some farming families are struggling and often find it difficult to reach out and share with others. That’s where the volunteers at FCN make a real difference so we are delighted to be able to put something back.
The breakfast will include a presentation from a local Dartmoor farmer who will share their own experiences of mental health issues. In addition there will be volunteers from FCN present and the proceeds from the event will be donated to the charity.
Russell Ashford said:
“This event isn’t just for farmers it’s for anyone who would like to show support for the work of FCN. We are grateful to everyone who has helped to make this happen from donations of food to provision of the venue”
Anyone interested in attending can book a place through the Hill Farm Project on 01822 890913 or hfp@dartmoor.gov.uk.
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