Farming Fit: Promoting Health and Wellbeing for Farmers
Since February 2024 some partners of the network have been developing a health & wellbeing drop in session project in partnership with Powys County Council Community Health Protection & Wellbeing team and Powys Teaching Health Board called ‘Farming Fit’.
A prevention project taking health and wellbeing information to the agricultural sector via
livestock markets and major agricultural events in Powys.
The idea for this project was first discussed by the PAWS network over 18 months ago. We discovered a few months into our project planning discussions PCC & PTHB were also discussing a similar project so we agreed to join forces together to strengthen both projects and reduce duplication. We are delighted to say the partnership project went live at the Royal Welsh Show in July.
The following services were on offer;
● Pulse check
● BMI
● Blood Glucose
● Mental Health Support
● Blood Pressure Check
● Medical Signposting
● Lifestyle Assessment
● Carbon Monoxide Monitoring
Farming Fit does not provide an alternative primary care resource, but rather a health promotion intervention opportunity, should any needs be identified clients will be signposted to the relevant professional.
The project is manned by Clinical Nurse Specialist, Community Health Protection and Wellbeing Officers, PAVO Community Connector and the following 3rd sector organisation staff:
- Mid and North Powys Mind
- Ponthafren
- Mamwlad
- Lingen Davies Cancer Trust
Initial impact
During the four days of the show over 1100 checks were undertaken, with individuals undertaking 3 or 4 checks each. 20 individuals were advised to attend their GP for further investigation.
Individuals checked were from across the UK, not just Powys. All commented on a fabulous initiative. The official launch was attended by people from all sectors. There was media coverage on ITV Cymru/Wales and S4C.
The RWAS were delighted and supportive, both in the location of the stand and publicity across the show. To quote the Chief Executive of the show ‘What can we do to support you next year’
Visits to Livestock Markets
A programme of monthly visits to Welshpool, Builth and Brecon Markets has been in place
from August to December. Also the ‘Farming Fit’ stand attended the NSA Ram sale in Builth in September, and the two day RWAS Winter Fair in November.
Feedback will determine the nature of the programme in 2025!