The European Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development has passed an amendment written by MEP Maria Walsh, calling for increased funding for mental health supports for farmers to be included in the EU’s 2025 Budget.
The amendment, which forms part of the Committee’s Opinion on the General Budget of the EU for 2025, calls for mental health supports to be specifically integrated into EU agricultural policies through the provision of long-term funding.
The amendment highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by those living in rural areas, particularly farmers, who often experience isolation and limited access to mental health services. In some EU Member States, suicide rates among farmers are as much as 20% higher than the national average.
Maria Walsh, MEP for Midlands-North West, said:
“This amendment is an important step towards ensuring that the mental health needs of our farmers are recognized and supported. Our farmers play a crucial role in maintaining Europe’s food supply, and it’s essential that we provide them with the necessary resources to maintain their well-being.
“Working the land can be a lonely job. We need to see supports designed specifically to the needs of our farming community, to help members with the challenges they face as a result of isolation and loneliness. Most importantly, targeted funding is required to develop these supports and ensure that we tangibly improve the health and happiness of farmers.
“With the amendment now approved by the Agriculture Committee, I will work with my colleagues on the Parliament’s Budget Committee to ensure meaningful supports for mental health are incorporated into our future Budgets.
“I’m encouraged by the Committee’s support and look forward to seeing these recommendations reflected in the final budget. It’s important that we continue to prioritise the well-being of our farming communities as we move forward.”