Young farmers' photographic mental health promotion programme: A case study

Abstract

Primary objective: This project sought to document and describe a public health programme targeting young farmers from hill farming communities in England. Farmers are known to experience physical and mental health inequalities and have a higher mortality rate from suicide than the general population.

Research design: Using a case study methodology and guided by Friere's empowerment model of health promotion, the project aimed to improve the self-esteem and self-efficacy of participants. Photography and interviews were used by participants to record their feelings and experiences of farming and convey them to a wider audience. Photographic artists supported the participants through the delivery of skills-based workshops.

Outcomes: Participants (n = 100) acquired new skills and demonstrated increased self-confidence. A photographic collection was produced and exhibited across the UK including the House of Commons. Photography was successfully used to engage young people and enabled them to take their views to the heart of the government. Empowering young farmers may mitigate against future mental health problems in this vulnerable occupational group.

Keywords:

• public health
• art
• photography
• farming

Acknowledgements

We wish to acknowledge Janette McSkimming (former coordinator of the Rural Education and Arts Project and project manager) without whom this project would not have happened. Also: Jane Smith (County Secretary Derbyshire Young Farmers), Tim Robinson (County Chair Derbyshire Young Farmers), photographers: John Higginson, Kate Bellis, Cora Glasser, David Ball, Jan Schouten, and Martin Nadin, and all the Derbyshire Young Farmers who participated in this project.

This project was funded through: Arts Council England, Leader +, Heritage Lottery Fund, Derbyshire County Council, Derbyshire Dales District Council, and Derbyshire Learning Partnership.