'Taking Stock’ Campaign Launched to Support Farmers’ Health, Finances, and Wellbeing
Date: 21-03-2025
Farmers across Mayo, Galway, and Roscommon are being encouraged to take time to focus on their health, financial wellbeing, and overall work-life balance as part of the new ‘Taking Stock’ campaign, running throughout March.
This month-long initiative aims to raise awareness and provide practical support on key issues affecting farmers, including cardiovascular health, financial planning, farm succession, and mental wellbeing.
Through expert advice, real farmer stories, and access to resources, ‘Taking Stock’ is designed to help farmers make informed decisions that will benefit both themselves and their families.
Speaking about the campaign, Mayo ambassador and Mayo Football Captain and farmer, Stephen Coen, said: “Farming is more than a job—it’s a way of life. But to keep farms running, farmers need to take care of themselves, manage their finances, plan for the future, and make time for their wellbeing.
“Farmers are the backbone of our communities, but they often put everything before themselves. This campaign is about making small, manageable changes that will improve their quality of life and secure their future,”
Taking Stock’ is about encouraging farmers to pause and focus on these important areas, with practical advice and support available throughout March.”
Deirdre Finnerty, Head of Community Engagement, Mayo County Council added: “Mayo County Council is delighted to lead out on the Taking Stock campaign, in partnership with Teagasc the HSE and various other partners, emphasising our partnership approach to community development and our commitment to building resilient communities, ensuring that we create a space where our farming community can thrive.”
Elmer Pieterse, Healthy County Coordinator stated: “Farmers in Ireland experience a range of work-related challenges that place them at increased risk of poor physical and mental health and can be hard to engage on health issues. ‘Taking Stock’ is about helping farmers make informed decisions that will benefit both themselves and their families.”
The campaign will run across social media, radio, and newspapers, featuring expert insights, farmer testimonials, and key resources to help farmers prioritise their health and financial security.
The key themes of the ‘Taking Stock’ Campaign are:
- Cardiovascular Health – Raising awareness of heart health and preventive care.
- Financial Planning – Helping farmers secure their financial future.
- Farm Succession – Encouraging families to plan for smooth farm transfers.
- Work-Life Balance – Highlighting the importance of rest and mental wellbeing.
Each week focuses on a specific theme, ensuring that farmers receive targeted support and advice to help them make positive, lasting changes.
For more information on the Taking Stock campaign tune into Midwest Radio’s Farming Matters every Wednesday night during March between 10-11pm, pick up the Western People and keep an eye on social media for lots more about the initiative.