FUW announces DPJ Foundation as next charitable cause

Written by Rachel Martin

The Farmers’ Union of Wales has committed to tackling rural mental health head-on, making the DPJ Foundation its chosen charity for the next two years.

FUW president Glyn Roberts made the announcement at this week’s Royal Welsh Show.

The DPJ Foundation, a mental health charity which aims to support people in rural communities with poor mental health, especially men in the agricultural sector, has been chosen as the FUW Presidents charitable cause for 2019-2021.

DPJ Foundation


The DPJ Foundation was set up in July 2016 by Emma Picton-Jones following the death of her husband, Daniel.

By training vets, feed reps and others who work in the industry, the charity takes support to farmers, rather than waiting for people to seek it themselves.

Speaking as he made the announcement, Roberts said: “One in four people will suffer from mental health problems in their lifetime – it is not an uncommon illness and one which we need to work together to tackle.

Sadly, agriculture carries the highest rate of suicide above any other occupation. Concerns about the unpredictable weather, animal disease, support payments and the impact of Brexit are weighing on the minds of many farmers throughout Wales.

“Coupled with the loneliness and isolation that comes with farming means that farmers and agricultural workers are highly susceptible to poor mental wellbeing.

“Failing to deal with that could lead to all sorts of issues, such as the farm running inefficiently, a serious injury, relationship breakdowns, poor physical health and, even worse, it could lead to suicide.

Let’s remember that 16.7% of the population have had suicidal thoughts, and in 2014, 6,581 died by suicide in the UK – three and a half times as many as on UK roads.

“That is why the work of the DPJ Foundation is so important and we are excited about supporting their efforts over the next two years.”

Responding to the announcement, Emma Picton-Jones said: “Having worked closely with the FUW this year it was fantastic to hear that we have been chosen as the next charity.

“The work the FUW do to support the awareness of the charity is already making a difference and to be able to continue that will mean the word around mental health will continue to reach bigger audiences. We can’t thank everyone involved enough for their continued support.”

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