Celebrations continue in Carlow following a win at the Local Authority Members Association (LAMA) Community and Council Awards.
Hosted in Cork, the event saw the Carlow Farmer Wellbeing campaign named the Best Community Wellbeing Initiative in Ireland at the event which recognises and celebrates innovative and outstanding work and achievements across the country’s 31 local authorities
Cllr Andrea Dalton had nominated the programme which had been designed to address the health, wellbeing and safety challenges faced by the farming community in the county, offering a range of services and advice aimed at improving mental wellbeing, physical health and overall self care in the agri environment.
It included a number of tailored, information-sharing sessions as well as a Farmer Wellbeing Day.
It was funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine and supported by a range of key stakeholders, including Carlow County Council, Healthy Carlow, Leinster Mart, County Carlow Development Partnership, Embrace FARM, Teagasc, IFA, Macra na Feirme and Kelly Agri Consultants.
Cathaoirleach of the County Council, Cllr Fergal Browne says; “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.”
“This health and wellbeing initiative uniquely benefits the Carlow Farming Community with 347 members of the farming community engaged in 2024.” said Michael Brennan, Director of Services, Carlow County Council “The initiative was specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by the farming community in the county, from the physical demands of the job to the mental and emotional strain that can often accompany farm life. With its combination of practical advice, health resources, and community connection, the event highlighted the importance of prioritizing the wellbeing of farmers who are at the heart of rural life in Carlow.”
