A scheme aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of Wiltshire’s farmers has been shortlisted for a major national award.
The Well Farmers for Wiltshire pilot, led by the Wiltshire Integrated Care Alliance and facilitated by the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (BSW ICB), has reached the finals of the Health Service Journal Awards in the Innovation and Improvement in Reducing Healthcare Inequalities category.
Running through the summer and autumn of 2024, the project set out to tackle some of the most persistent pressures faced by rural and agricultural communities – from financial strain and working in isolation, to difficulties in accessing healthcare.
By working with health professionals, community leaders, and farming advocates, the pilot created safe spaces for open conversation, offering tailored support and building resilience within the farming population.
The scheme was shaped with input from local organisations including the Farming Community Network, Wiltshire Council, and several voluntary and community groups. The collaboration brought together mental health expertise, local knowledge, and the trust of established rural networks to address the specific challenges of farming life.
Emma Higgins, Head of Combined Place for BSW ICB, said the shortlisting was a credit to everyone involved:
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our teams and partners who have worked hard to ensure Wiltshire’s farming communities feel seen, heard, and supported.
Although the health and care services at markets ended with the pilot, our work with rural communities continues – with a focus on prevention and deepening our understanding of their needs. We’re looking forward to shaping the next phase of a lasting offer for our farming population.”
The competition for this year’s HSJ Awards has been particularly fierce, with over 1,250 entries from across the country and only 245 finalists. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on Thursday 20th November.
For Wiltshire’s farmers, the recognition is more than a trophy – it’s proof that their needs are being heard at a national level.
