Following a successful first season, farmers' wellbeing podcast Keeping on Track is making its return – with the support of leading agricultural law firm Thrings.
Having confirmed its support earlier this year for the podcast – created by farmer and BBC Countryfile host Adam Henson with health and prevention specialists The Sound Doctor – the firm is proud to back Keeping on Track as it launches its second season – launching on 22 July to coincide with Farm Safety Week.
Aimed at increasing communication within the farming sector, the podcast seeks to encourage people not to suffer alone and to get the support they need before it’s too late.
The second season will include conversations with a range of inspirational farmers, academics, leaders in farming policy and agricultural disability champions on multiple issues directly linked to wellbeing in the farming industry.
As many as 92% of UK farmers under 40 consider poor mental health to be the biggest problem facing farmers today according to surveys by the Farm Safety Foundation. The scale of this issue is supported by research from the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) which has found that one-in-three farmers are possibly or probably experiencing depression.
Adam Henson, creator of Keeping on Track, said: “It is fantastic to continue to have the genuine support of Thrings as we embark on our second series of Keeping on Track.
“Working on the first season was a really rewarding experience and it has been great to engage positively with so many listeners since it was released, sharing our stories and how we are all overcoming our own personal struggles. I am hopeful that with this new season, and the amazing people we interview, we can take it a step further and give people a reason not to suffer in silence.”
As one of the country’s most prominent firms in agricultural law, ranked by both the prestigious Chambers & Partners and Legal 500 directories for its expertise, Thrings has served the farming community for more than a century, acting for clients on all areas from land, property and diversification projects, to succession planning and estate management.
Duncan Sigournay, Thrings’ Head of Agriculture, said: “Poor mental health is fast becoming one of the most significant concerns for workers in the farming sector and it’s clear more needs to be done to raise the profile of the issue, giving people the tools to help themselves and others.
“This is why resources such as Keeping on Track are so vital for the industry and we are delighted to be backing its second season following the clear success of the first. We look forward to continuing our support for Adam and the team as they endeavour to make a difference for so many people.”
Keeping on Track podcast, launching on Monday, 22 July, wherever you get your podcasts.
Thrings’ Agriculture team is one of the largest of its kind in the UK with decades of experience in successfully supporting its farming and landowner clients to achieve their aims and the potential for their business. The firm has also been chosen by the NFU to act for its members in more countries than any other firm.
Find out more about how we can support farmers, food producers and rural communities on our Information for Farmers page.