New farmer health and wellbeing network launched in Ballyhoura

A Network to assist farmers, their families and members of the rural community to connect and improve access to practical wellbeing supports has been officially launched in Ballyhoura.

Councillors Deirdre O'Brien and Tommy O'Sullivan attended the launch of the new Ballyhoura Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network.

The Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network has been launched by Ballyhoura Development to improve social connection and support wellbeing for rural communities.

The network is part of the ‘Farm Forward – Connecting Generations and Farming for the Future European Innovation Partnership (EIP)’, which is supported by the Department of Agriculture.

Launched on June 30 at the seventh-generation Corderry Farm in Galbally, the Network marks an important milestone in the Farm Forward programme, bringing together farmers, farming families and rural communities to strengthen social connection and improve access to practical health and wellbeing supports.

The Ballyhoura Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network has been designed to support retired farmers, those contemplating retirement, isolated farmers and members of farm families to foster social connection and improve access to practical wellbeing supports.

The event was officially launched by Councillor Tommy O'Sullivan and Councillor Deirdre O'Brien, deputising on behalf of the Mayors of Limerick City and County Council and Cork County Council.

Attendees included Tracy O'Donoghue of the Department of Agriculture, Jess Angland, Chairperson of Ballyhoura Development, Ballyhoura Development Board and staff members, local representatives, farmers and members of farming families from across the Ballyhoura region.

Minister Martin Heydon congratulated Farm Forward EIP on the launch of the Network, saying: "The Department recognises that the sustainability of farming depends not just on the land, but on the well-being of the people behind it. This network is a positive and practical step in supporting farmers' health, reducing isolation, and strengthening rural communities."

Farm Forward Health & Wellbeing Social Prescriber, Gráinne Fitzgerald, said: "You can't separate people's health from the reality of their lives and work. Farmers are resilient, but they carry a huge level of responsibility. This network is about recognising that and offering practical supports that fit into farming life."

Grainne Fitzgerald introducing and leading the wellbeing walk overlooking the Galtee Mountains.

The Network responds to the unique pressures facing today's farming community, including long working hours, weather uncertainty, financial pressures, increasing administrative demands and social isolation.

Rather than delivering formal programmes, the Network will focus on informal, accessible and farmer-led supports such as walk-and-talk sessions, peer connection opportunities, health information and checks, workshops, and access to supports through social prescribing.

"This isn't about telling farmers what to do. It's about offering options. Farmers can take what suits them, and the network will continue to grow based on what they tell us they want and need," Ms Fitzgerald added.

The event saw a welcome and discussion of the diversified family farm from the hosts, John and Ailish Ivory, followed by contributions from invited speakers. Attendees also took part in a wellbeing walk, with the event concluding with a traditional horse logging demonstration by the Ivory family, showcasing sustainable forestry practices and celebrating the rich heritage of the farm.

A traditional horse logging demonstration by the Ivory family, was showcased at the event demonstrating sustainable forestry practices and celebrating the rich heritage of the farm.

The launch marks the beginning of a series of farmer-focused initiatives across the region aimed at maintaining momentum, encouraging engagement and building stronger connections within the farming community.

Upcoming events include a SunSmart Campaign at Kilmallock Mart, a Farm Walk & Nature Connection event at Slí Eile, a Rambling House evening celebrating farming through the ages, and a range of wellbeing talks and information sessions delivered in partnership with community organisations.

Farmers, members of farming families and the wider rural community are encouraged to get involved and help shape the future of the Ballyhoura Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network, ensuring it continues to respond to the needs of local farming communities while promoting positive health, wellbeing and social connection across the region.