EFRA committee chair: Government demonstrating a "worrying degree of complacency" over rural mental health issues

MPs have accused the government of having a 'worrying degree of complacency' over rural mental health issues, as farmers particularly struggle with isolation and lack of connectivity.

The EFRA committee’s report found that rural workers including farmers face particular stresses, including unpredictable weather and animal health crises.

They also face changing and uncertain government policies which can affect their incomes as well as their mental health.

MPs expressed concern about how isolation, poor public transport and a lack of digital connectivity have contributed to poor mental health outcomes for all rural people, but especially among farm workers and vets.