Young Farmers' Clubs are being called on to help support one man's 142 mile walk to raise awareness of rural mental health, and which will also raise funds for The National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs (NFYFC).
Sam Stables, a sheep farmer from Herefordshire and the co-founder of We Are Farming Minds, has partnered with the Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) and their Mind Your Head campaign to walk 142 miles from Ross‑on‑Wye to London.
His goal is simple but powerful: shine a national spotlight on the immense pressures farmers face every single day.
Along the way, Sam is also raising vital funds for NFYFC – helping give the next generation of farmers the voice, confidence, and support they deserve.
From unpredictable weather and financial strain to isolation and long hours, British farmers are carrying more weight than ever before.
The Farm Safety Foundation research revealed that 95% of farmers under 40 believe that mental health is the biggest hidden problem facing farmers today
Sam’s walk is a symbol of that struggle — but it’s also a symbol of hope. He wants every farmer to know that support exists, that they are not alone, and that things can get better.
By taking on this challenge during Mind Your Head Week, Sam is calling for greater understanding, more open conversations, and stronger support for those who feed the nation.
YFC members and supporters are being encouraged to support Sam on the walk, which takes place from 9-13 February 2026 – Mind Your Head Week.
Clubs are encouraged to promote Sam's walk on their social media channels and members are invited to join Sam on parts or all of the walk.
Come on YFCs! This is an amazing opportunity for you to help raise awareness about rural mental health as well as raise money for our organisation.
If your club members are based anywhere along the route, why not encourage them to get involved or show your support if Sam is passing through your local community. We are extremely grateful to Sam for supporting YFC on his mammoth mission and for raising awareness of the pressures faced by rural and farming communities.
James Nixey
NFYFC Chair
Click on the links to follow Sam's walk and see where you could walk with Sam or cheer him on.
Leaving Ross-on-Wye Stock Market at approximately 7am finishing at Alderton.
Alderton finishing between Easton and Middle Barton
From between Easton and Middle Barton arriving in Thame.
Thame to Gerrards Cross.
Gerrards Cross arriving at The Farmers Club, Whitehall at approx. 5-5.30pm
Make a difference and donate to Sam so he can continue this essential work and support the wellbeing of farmers now and in the future.
