Members of NFYFC’s Council gave Herefordshire sheep farmer Sam Stables a standing ovation after it was announced his 142-mile walk had raised more than £54,000 for Young Farmers’ Clubs.
The We Are Farming Minds co-founder walked from Herefordshire to London during The Farm Safety Foundation’s Mind Your Head Week in February to raise awareness of mental health in farming. On his epic journey, he carried a potato sack with words associated with the pressures of farming sewn on the back.
The walk was also a chance to raise funds and as a former YFC member, who also has a son involved in Welsh Newton YFC, Sam was keen to support NFYFC.
James Nixey, former NFYFC Chair, joined Sam when he walked through Buckinghamshire and spoke to him about his reasons for supporting YFC.
“You’re the next generation and we need to look after you. Our next British farmers,” explained Sam. “I can’t speak highly enough of what you guys do. It brings families together. Everything that Young Farmers’ is about is just amazing.”
Donations quickly poured in to support Sam on his walk, where he struggled with painful blisters and sore muscles. He even attracted Royal attention, with HRH The Prince of Wales – who is also the Patron of We Are Farming Minds – speaking to both Sam and James in Buckinghamshire and committing to donate £5,000 to support the cause.
NFYFC is now working with Sam to ensure the money that has been raised is used in two key areas to support YFC members.
Sam is aware that new British agricultural policies can affect the mental health of someone working in the sector. He wants to ensure YFC continues to be involved in future discussions, and the funds will help to support NFYFC for work in this area.
The money will also be used to support NFYFC’s mental health work with YFCs.
James Nixey, who joined Sam again on the final leg of the walk in London to The Farmers' Club, said:
“It’s absolutely incredible how much has been raised and we are very grateful to Sam for all he has achieved.
“Mental health in agriculture is at an all-time low, so it was great to be a small part of Sam’s mission to help raise awareness.
“A huge thank you to everyone who has donated to support Young Farmers’ Clubs across England and Wales.”
More updates on the projects that the funding will support will be shared soon. The donation page will remain open for a short time for anyone who wishes to donate.
Watch a video of James Nixey and Sam Stables walking in Buckinghamshire.
