Aphra Brandreth, Member of Parliament for Chester South and Eddisbury, has asked the Leader of the House of Commons, the Rt Hon Lucy Powell MP, if the House can have a debate on mental health support for agricultural communities.
Earlier this year, Paul Reeves, a loved and very well-respected member of the agricultural community in Malpas, took his own life. This tragedy is all too common in rural areas and Aphra Brandreth MP is determined to ensure the issue is heard in Westminster.
Aphra Brandreth MP asked:
“Just two months ago Paul Reeves, a well-respected farmer and agricultural business owner in my constituency took his own life.
“Sadly, his story is all too common, with the many challenges that the industry often faces contributing to poor mental health. Farming families like Paul’s are the bedrock of our country.
“Without them, we simply cannot function and when they are struggling we must support them. In Paul’s memory, can I ask the leader of the House if we can have a debate on improving mental health in our farming and agricultural communities?”
The Rt Hon Lucy Powell MP, Leader of the House of Commons replied:
"I’m really sorry to hear about Paul Reeves and I send my condolences on behalf of the whole House, I’m sure, to his family and friends, and she raises what I know many members will relate to across this House of the mental health of our farming community.
“They do an amazing job keeping this country fed, and well cared for, and supporting nature and many other things. And I think that what she’s raised today would a very good topic for a debate, and a popular one.”
You can watch the question here.
