I’ve previously raised concerns about the Government’s proposed Family Farm Tax – measures that risk undermining the very foundations of family farming in Britain. Unfortunately, the Spring Statement offered little reassurance. By overlooking food security, it failed to address a key pillar of our national resilience and the mounting pressures facing farming communities.
Of course, regardless of Government policies, farmers continue to face considerable challenges and in that context the Big Farm Tea Break (which ran this year from 24th to 30th March) is more than just a welcome pause – it’s a vital act of support. The initiative was founded by Lynda and Andy Eadon, former constituents of mine, following the tragic loss of their son Len in 2022. In response, they committed themselves to improving mental health awareness in rural communities. Their message is simple but powerful: take a moment, however brief, to talk, connect and check in with one another.
The Eadons’ work has since grown in reach, including meaningful collaboration with the Farm Safety Foundation. Together, they’ve helped take the conversation into agricultural colleges, ensuring the next generation of farmers feels able to speak openly about mental health and access support when they need it.
Support for the mental health of farmers and all those working in agriculture couldn’t be more timely. Spring brings lambing, calving and relentless fieldwork. The days are long, and yet it’s often the mental burden that weighs heaviest. Financial pressures, shifting policies and rural isolation continue to take their toll. Farming has always been demanding, but no one should have to face it alone. Whether it’s a five-minute tea break, a quick chat at the livestock market or catching up at a local Young Farmers’ Club, these small moments of connection can make a big difference. In some cases, they can be lifesaving. The Big Farm Tea Break reminds us that a conversation over tea isn’t just a pause, it’s a lifeline.
If you took part this year, I’d encourage you to share your #LensLight moments online and help spread the message. If you or someone you know could use some extra support, the numbers below could be useful.
Where to get help
Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI(: 0800 188 4444
Farming Community Network (FCN): 03000 111 999
RSABI stands for the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution: 0300 111 4166
Addington Fund: 01926 620 135
Samaritans: 116 123
You Are Not Alone: 0300 323 0400
