A grant of £52,000 has been given to Lincolnshire Rural Support Network (LRSN) to support more mental health provision within the county’s agricultural and rural communities.
The money has come from Lincolnshire County Council’s public health grant and will fund practical support for mental health and wellbeing through caseworkers and volunteers in the county charity.
Cllr Wendy Bowkett, executive councillor for adult care and public health at the county council, said:
“We know that our farming communities have been facing difficult times and there has been an increase in demand for mental health support in recent years. LRSN’s Mental Health Service does a fantastic job and I’m so pleased we’ve been able to extend this provision to make sure vulnerable farming families have the help they need.”
The grant will increase existing LRSN caseworker capacity by 50% over 2 years, offering bespoke and consistent support to help manage their mental health and wellbeing.
Amy Thomas, Head of Charity at Lincolnshire Rural Support Network, said:
“We are delighted to work with Lincolnshire County Council to extend the support that we provide to people living and working within agriculture, horticulture and allied industries across Lincolnshire. At LRSN we have seen a significant increase in the number of people reaching out to us for support, as farmers and growers across the county navigate the many and complex challenges facing the industry. The funding from Lincolnshire County Council will help us to reach and support more people, and to offer a lifeline when its needed most.”
Lincolnshire County Council works with many organisations to support farmers, allowing them to thrive, excel, and lead the way in best practice. A list of available support has been compiled for those working in agriculture and horticulture across Lincolnshire and is available at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/keeplincolnshiregrowing