A survey of people in Scottish agricultural has revealed that while there is strong awareness of the importance of taking a break off the farm, too few farmers actually do so.
Launched at Fife Show and promoted at key agricultural events over the summer, including the Royal Highland Show, the initiative was aimed at encouraging farmers and others working in the industry to prioritise time away from their demanding workloads.
Over 280 respondents completed the survey which was undertaken alongside a competition which saw one lucky entrant winning a four-night stay for up to six people in a luxury pod at Lothian Glamping, generously donated by the glamping site.
The survey results revealed important insights into the challenges farmers face in taking breaks, with 43% of participants reporting they took just 2-5 nights away from the farm during the entire calendar year.
Forty-one percent of those who completed the survey cited worrying about the farm as a major barrier to taking an overnight break and less than half (47%) felt confident that someone else could manage the farm in their absence.
However, indicating a positive shift in attitude and action towards taking breaks, almost all (93%) of respondents agreed that taking a break could improve their wellbeing and productivity and, encouragingly, 37% of participants managed to take a break for seven nights or more.
The findings underscore the pressures on those working in the agricultural sector and the crucial need for time off to maintain both mental and physical health.
The winner of the competition was Liz Black, whose husband works in farming. Upon hearing the news of her win, Liz expressed her delight, saying, “That’s made my day.”
Carol McLaren, RSABI Chief Executive, emphasised the significance of the survey. “Our thanks to the team at Lothian Glamping for providing such a brilliant prize and we hope the Black family will make the most of their break and the lovely accommodation at Lothian Glamping.
“Taking time away from the farm, even for a short period, is so important for wellbeing and making time to step away can also bring benefits for the business, with a refreshed outlook, and for family relationships too.
“While there are encouraging signs, the survey has highlighted the continued challenges farming families have to prioritise time for themselves. The initiative has also been an excellent opportunity for the RSABI team to encourage more farmers to take those well-deserved breaks, knowing that it can make a world of difference to their health and wellbeing.
Liz Reid, who runs Lothian Glamping, echoed the sentiment, expressing her support for the initiative: “We were delighted to partner with RSABI for this competition. We understand the pressures faced by those in agriculture, and we believe that offering a peaceful and luxurious space to unwind can be incredibly beneficial. We hope the winners enjoy their stay and that this encourages others to see the value in taking a break.”
RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support including counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry. Its free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls won’t show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk.
Image caption: Brian and Liz Reid from Lothian Glamping presenting the prize voucher to Pauline Macmillan, Head of Fundraising at RSABI and RSABI Case Officer Jan Welsh.