The role of so-called 'accidental counsellors' in supporting mental health

So-called 'accidental counsellors' - people who go up the farm track to meet with farmers or regularly engage them in other ways (e.g. agronomists, veterinarians, solicitors, land agents, hauliers, bank managers), but who are not experts on mental health - have been identified as a key group of people who could spot and act on signs of farmer distress. There is limited research on the role, if any, that could and should be played by these 'accidental counsellors'. Based on surveys, mental health literacy training, and interviews primarily of agronomists, land agents, and contractors, we explore (a) the spaces of interaction between accidental counsellor and farmer, (b how an accidental counsellor supports a farmer with their mental health, (c) the effect this has on the farmer and accidental counsellor, and (d) what support an accidental counsellor needs. We critically reflect on the factors that influence the type of support given and its effect, the benefits and limits of different forms of training and help, and the role of accidental counsellors vis-a-vis a professional landscape of support.

Timings

1.00pm: Guests arrive

1.15pm: CoE Introduction

1.20pm: Keynote Speaker

1.50pm: Q&A Session

2.00pm: Speaking finishes, guests network

2.30pm: Event finishes

Friday 28 November

1.00pm - 2.30pm

Patiki, Waimarie Building, Lincoln University

About Our Speaker

Professor David Rose

Professor David Rose is the Elizabeth Creak Chair in Sustainable Agricultural Change at Harper Adams University in the UK, a specialist agricultural institution educating the next generation for 125 years. He is Director of the Centre for Social Science and Lead of the Engaging for Change research group. He has published over 80 peer reviewed academic papers since 2014 on subjects related to farmer mental health, behavioural change and extension, and technology adoption and ethics. He is a Handling Editor at the Journal of Agromedicine and the Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension.

Host or Publisher LU CoE - Transformative Agribusiness