Supporting the People Behind the Farm

Farming is more than a job — it’s a way of life. Farm Forward recognises the importance of supporting farmers’ health and wellbeing, particularly during times of change such as succession and retirement.

This strand delivers a targeted Social Prescribing service, focused on improving overall wellbeing through:

• Support for farmers planning retirement or transitioning out of active farming
• Improving mental and physical health
• Reducing isolation and strengthening social connections
• Connecting farmers with local community services and supports

By addressing the social determinants of health, Farm Forward helps farmers maintain a strong sense of purpose, connection, and wellbeing at every stage of life.

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Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network 

Led by Gráinne Fitzgerald, the Farm Forward Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network provides a welcoming and informal support network for farmers and farming families across the Ballyhoura region.

The network is designed to support full-time, part-time, and retired farmers through a community-based social prescribing model that promotes wellbeing, inclusion, and lifelong connection.

The network offers:

• Connection & Community
  • A welcoming and informal space where farmers and farming families can connect with like-minded people, share experiences, reduce isolation, and stay actively engaged within their communities.
• Learning & Knowledge Sharing
  • Access to local knowledge, practical insight, and peer learning opportunities that encourage lifelong learning and support healthier, happier, and more connected lives.
• Health & Wellbeing Supports
  • Promoting awareness around health, wellbeing, stress, and pressures within farming life while encouraging early intervention and preventative supports.
• Supporting Life Transitions
  • Providing guidance and support around succession planning, retirement, and generational renewal in collaboration with Carrie O’Donoghue, Succession & Generational Renewal Coach.

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Farmer Led & Community Focused

The Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network will continue to evolve as a farmer-led initiative — shaped by the needs, experiences, and priorities of Ballyhoura farmers and their families.

Whether actively farming, planning for the future, transitioning toward retirement, or simply looking to connect with others locally, the network aims to ensure that no farmer feels isolated or unsupported.

For more information or to get involved in the Farm Forward Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network, please contact Gráinne Fitzgerald at 086-8366679 or [email protected]. 

Back to Farm Forward Project Page

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The Farm Forward project is part of the European Innovative Partnerships (EIP) initiative co-funded by the European Commission and the Irish Government under the CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027.