The Welsh Conservatives have called on the Welsh Government to work more closely with rural mental health charities.
The party has proposed establishing service-level agreements with health boards to expand the work of rural mental health charities and improve access to vital support for farming families across Wales.
The party has paid tribute to organisations including the DPJ Foundation, the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) and other rural mental health charities, who play a crucial role in supporting farmers.
Speaking ahead of the third day of the Royal Welsh Show in Llanelwedd, the party’s Shadow Minister for Farming said rural mental health charities should not have to rely solely on charitable donations to deliver services that benefit the NHS and rural communities.
Andrew RT Davies MS, Shadow Minister for Farming and the Environment, said:
"Our farmers do a remarkable job producing the food that feeds the nation, but the realities of working long hours, often alone and in remote rural settings, can take a significant emotional toll.
“Charities such as The DPJ Foundation and RABI provide invaluable support to farming families, yet they are too often left relying on donations to sustain services that are making a real difference and alleviating some of the strain placed on the NHS’s mental health services.
"The Welsh Conservatives will always stand alongside farming families wherever they live, recognising the tremendous contribution they make to our economy, food security and the natural environment."
Natasha Asghar MS, Shadow Minister for Health and Social Care, said:
"The Welsh Government should work with rural mental health charities and establish service-level agreements with health boards so they have secure funding to expand the mental health support they provide.
“This is a sensible proposal that would strengthen rural mental health services, support our farming communities and ensure people can access help before they reach crisis point.”
