Carlow initiative wins Best Community Wellbeing Initiative at All Ireland awards

Carlow County Council's Farmer Wellbeing initiative at supporting health, safety, and wellbeing of the farming community in Carlow has been named the overall winner of an All-Ireland Competition.

The Local Authority Members Association, Community and Council Awards, took place over the weekend in Rochestown Park Hotel in Cork.

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Nominated by Cllr Andrea Dalton, the Carlow Farmer Wellbeing initiative was specifically designed to address the health, wellbeing and safety challenges faced by the farming community in Carlow. The initiative offered a range of services and advice aimed at improving mental wellbeing, physical health and overall self care in the farming environment.

Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, expressed his excitement about the winning initiative, saying, "We're thrilled that IPB and LAMA chose to recognise this fantastic programme, that engages and connects with the farming community across Carlow. The physical and mental health of farmers often gets overlooked as the focus shifts to the demanding responsibilities of running a farm. The pressures of modern farming can lead to increased stress and concerns for both farmers and their families." He added, "Through this initiative, our goal is to support the farming community by offering the information and guidance they need to effectively manage these challenges in the best way possible."

The Carlow County Council led initiative provided a safe, familiar, and comfortable space for engagement. The programme included five tailored information-sharing sessions and a comprehensive Farmer Wellbeing Day, offering:
- Expert-led talks on farm succession and will-making, gambling addiction, managing time and stress, farm safety, and coping with bereavement through sudden death.
- Free health checks by qualified healthcare professionals, providing farmers with an accessible opportunity to monitor their physical wellbeing.
- Tailored advice from organisations on agri supports, farm safety, and business practices, alongside practical farming guidance from agricultural experts.
- Information and opportunities for engagement on wellbeing supports, services and social engagement opportunities.
- Free haircuts, fostering self-care and promoting a healthy work-life balance.
- Complimentary dinners and lunches, facilitating informal social interaction and connection.
- Free first aid kits, empowering farmers to prioritise safety on the farm.
By combining expert knowledge, tangible resources, and a strong social engagement component, the programme aimed to foster resilience and promote positive health and wellbeing among Carlow’s farming community.

More information on the award winning and the initiative can be found on the Carlow Council Facebook Page through the link HERE or by following the social post below this article.