Accidents and fatalities on farms are a continuing cause of concern for the farming community in Ireland. Adding to these worries for farmers in North West Connemara is the isolated nature and rugged terrain of most of the farm land in the region where mobile phone cover can also be an issue. Many farmers in this area live alone, work alone and are often miles from medical help. The FORUM Connemara Farm Health and Safety initiative, aims to promote and enhance on-farm health and safety at a local level on farms across North West Connemara. It will promote methods for improving both the physical and mental health of the farmers and their family members in the area, as well as addressing the overall safety on the farm in practical, low cost and easily implementable measures.

More specifically, following objectives will be met during the 12-month programme:

1.         Increase Knowledge – Deliver a specially tailored Connemara Farming Health and Safety (CF-HANDS) Training Programme highlighting the importance of proactive safety checks and best farming practice, for example.

2.         Increase Awareness - Deliver an 8-week pilot Farming Health, Safety and Wellbeing Radio show to also include a Social Media campaign with podcasts.

3.         Share Information – Public presence at marts and shows to host Health, Safety and Wellbeing stalls providing information and advocacy. Schools Liaison regarding Farming Health, Safety and Wellbeing.

4.         Improve Safety - Creation of Connemara Farm Health and Safety packs to include first aid kits and safety gear as well as checklists and safety plan templates.

5.         Be Innovative - Highlight and pilot new innovations and new technology to help the Connemara farmer farm safer and positively impact on their mental and physical health.