Ballyhoura Development has launched the Ballyhoura Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network as part of the Farm Forward, Connecting Generations and Farming for the Future European Innovation Partnership, with support from Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
The network was introduced June 30 at Corderry Farm in Galbally and is designed to improve health and wellbeing among farmers, farming families and rural communities by strengthening social connections and expanding access to practical support services.
Farm Forward, launched in October 2025, takes a holistic approach to supporting farmers across the Ballyhoura region by focusing on succession planning, farm sustainability, and health and wellbeing. The new network builds on that effort by targeting retired farmers, those considering retirement, isolated farmers and members of farming families.
The launch was attended by local government representatives, officials from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Ballyhoura Development board members and staff, farmers and community representatives.
The network was created in response to challenges commonly faced by farmers, including long work hours, unpredictable weather, financial pressures, increasing administrative responsibilities and social isolation.
Rather than offering formal programs, the initiative will emphasize informal, farmer-led activities and services, including walk and talk events, peer support opportunities, health information and screenings, workshops and access to social prescribing services.
Organizers said the initiative was developed after listening to farmers and tailoring support to fit the realities of agricultural life. The network is intended to provide flexible resources that farmers can use based on their individual needs while continuing to evolve through participant feedback.
The launch event included an overview of the host family's diversified farming operation, presentations from invited speakers and a wellbeing walk overlooking the Galtee Mountains that encouraged conversation and community engagement. The day concluded with a horse logging demonstration highlighting sustainable forestry practices and the farm's heritage.
Ballyhoura Development said the network is intended to strengthen rural communities by helping farmers and their families feel connected and supported.
The launch also marks the start of additional farmer focused activities across the region. Planned events include a SunSmart campaign at Kilmallock Mart, a farm walk centered on nature connection, a Rambling House evening celebrating farming traditions and a series of wellbeing talks and information sessions delivered with community organizations.
Organizers are encouraging farmers, farm families and members of the wider rural community to participate in the network and help guide its future development to ensure it continues meeting the changing needs of local farming communities.
Source: Ballyhoura Development, "Ballyhoura Launches New Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network to Strengthen Rural Communities"