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Farming can be rewarding, but it can also be isolating. Long hours, financial pressures, uncertainty and the expectation to keep going can take their toll.

To help tackle these challenges, we have launched Farmers’ Pit Stop – a series of four informal evening events designed to give men working in agriculture across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin an opportunity to step away from the farm, enjoy some food and spend time with others who understand rural life.

The grant from the McPhillips Community Fund will help deliver the four events, including providing food for attendees, while reaching men who may not otherwise engage with support services or community activities.

A place to pause, chat and connect

The first Farmers’ Pit Stop took place at Arscott Farm near Shrewsbury on 15th October and was a great success, welcoming farmers for an evening of conversation, refreshments and delicious wood-fired pizza from 2 Shires Woodfired Pizzas.

The evening provided an opportunity for farmers to catch up with familiar faces, meet new people and enjoy some time away from the everyday pressures of farm life. It demonstrated the value of creating a relaxed, welcoming environment where people can come together without pressure or expectation.

Kate Jones, Fundraising Manager at Shropshire Rural Support, said:

“We’re incredibly grateful to McPhillips for making Farmers’ Pit Stop possible. We wanted to create something simple and relaxed for farmers – no pressure, no agenda, just a chance to pause, get off the farm for a few hours and meet like-minded folk who understand the ups and downs of farming.

“Sometimes, just getting together, having a bite to eat and a chat can make a real difference. There’s no expectation to talk about how you’re feeling, but the opportunity is there if you want it. We want farmers to know they’re not alone and that support is available whenever they need it.”

Taking support into rural communities

Following the successful launch at Arscott Farm, the next three Farmers’ Pit Stop events are planned for Ludlow, Newport and Frodesley, helping SRS reach farming communities across the county.

The initiative builds on the charity’s longstanding commitment to supporting people working in agriculture. Established in 1991, Shropshire Rural Support provides a free, confidential service for people facing challenges in farming and rural life. Alongside one-to-one support, initiatives such as the Butty Van help the charity connect with people in their own communities.

Investing in men’s mental health

Farmers’ Pit Stop is one of five men’s mental health initiatives receiving support through the latest round of McPhillips Community Fund funding, which has awarded a total of £18,000 to community projects this year.

The other organisations benefiting are 4 All Foundation, Ex-Forces to Community’s, Feed the Birds and Shrewsbury Men’s Shed.

Paul Inions, Managing Director of McPhillips, said:

“We’re really proud to support all these organisations that are carrying out vital work in our communities.

“It was great to see the benefit of the incredible community work that was carried out last year, and this year it is going to be no different.

“Our staff chose the theme of men’s mental health, and this particular set of events with Shropshire Rural Support is going to have an impact on a number of communities across the region.”

Sonia Roberts, Trustee of Shropshire Community Foundation, added:

“We saw the impact of the fund last year – and we’re going to see it again this time with some really worthwhile causes.

“The projects they are supporting will transform the lives of people, and McPhillips are again a company delivering real and tangible social value by supporting communities.”

Our next Farmers’ Pit Stop takes place on 11th February at Ludlow Livestock Market.

For more information about Farmers’ Pit Stop or the confidential support available through Shropshire Rural Support, please get in touch with our team.