The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee session today was specifically on rural mental health and why suicide rates are above the national average for those that work in agriculture.
Barry was frustrated with the information that was being given but a lack of a real in depth explanation as to why these issues arise. He made the comparisons that as an MP in an urban area when talk of exhaustion is spoken of, that can always be said for an Amazon worker in Brent North, working long shifts with little break and walking 10 miles per shift.
It could also be said when talking of insecurity many farmers may well own the land the farm is on whereas a worker in the gig economy in Brent North would face greater stress and insecurity over their role.
There was further evidence provided in the briefing of the negative impact that can be from the farming community, whereas someone in Brent North living in what can be an isolating and faceless city and not knowing anyone can always face pressures with no community at all.
Sadly the panel was unable to offer the depth of answer that Barry wanted to dig into rather than more of a broad overview.
Barry then spoke of what effect and research there has been into the love lives of farmers, many farmers when seeking a partner will have to find someone who would marry into the farm and how difficult that may be. The panel confirmed that certain case studies have shown younger farmers have struggled from loneliness and struggled to hold relationships. The following exchanges can be viewed below