Samaritans are on track to train well over 100 Farming Future Champions across Wales this year, developing the skills to actively listen to others, help others and signpost anyone struggling to the support available.

“It’s part of a package of activities and events to reduce suicide risk and show rural communities that Samaritans and other charities and agencies are available to support them,” explained Sian Jones from Samaritans Cymru.

“With the help of our funders, we can offer free training to members of Young Farmers’ Clubs and agricultural colleges, so we’ll soon have trained individuals in communities across Wales.”

“We’ve got to learn to become better listeners and look after each other as well as we look out for our animals and crops” says Will Meadmore, a 26-year-old dairy farmer and tractor driver from Gwent, reflecting on the challenges facing young farmers in Wales.

Samaritans are working with young farmers to help break the cycle of suicide risk in rural communities across Wales. The suicide prevention charity is recruiting Farming Future Champions as part of a project focusing on building a peer-support network and reducing the stigma about talking about suicide and raising awareness of the support available. Through working with young people, Samaritans Cymru hope to influence other generations too whilst making a significant change to the outlook and support for farming communities in the future.

Samaritans Cymru are on a mission to help people across Wales become better listeners – and are inviting the crowds at this year’s Royal Welsh Show to spin their giant, bilingual Listening Wheel and pick up some tips.

“Everyone can learn to be a better listener and it’s a life-changing skill. Our target is to reach thousands at the show and it’s a great way to celebrate Samaritans Awareness Day on July 24,” said Neil Ingham, Samaritans Executive Director for Wales.