‘On Feirm Ground’: Promoting positive mental health and cultivating a community of practice response to suicide prevention in the farming sector in Ireland (SETU_2024_116)

Project Key Words: suicide prevention, farmers’ health, health behaviour change

Post summary

Introduction: Despite being a ‘high-risk’ group for poor mental health and suicide, farmers often struggle to seek help when distressed. ‘On Feirm Ground’ was developed to train frontline agricultural advisors as ‘Connectors’ to support and signpost farmers in distress to support services. Positive evaluation outcomes have prompted extending this network of support to other agricultural professionals.

Aim: Examine the acceptability and effectiveness of a refined ‘Connector’ programme to build agri-sector capacity to promote mental health and respond to suicidal behaviour. 

Study Design: Mixed method design underpinned by the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW), and social constructionist theories on masculinities.

Objective 1: Conduct focus groups with the wider agri-sector to inform adaptations to the existing programme.                                                          

Objective 2: Map these findings to the BCW in order to elucidate key mechanisms of change.

Objective 3: Conduct a survey (pre, post, 6 months) with programme recipients to determine its effectiveness.

Objective 4: Conduct focus groups with participants and facilitators to explore programme acceptability, informed by the Theoretical Framework for Acceptability.

Objective 5: Conduct an in-depth process evaluation to capture the mechanisms of programme development/implementation.

Findings can inform the development of a ‘community of practice’ approach to mental health promotion and suicide prevention among farmers. 

Knowledge & Experience

Essential

·        A minimum 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant area (health-related, social science, agriculture)

Desirable

·        Experience of qualitative research methods

·        A Masters degree in a relevant area

·        Knowledge of behaviour change theories

Skills & Competencies

Essential

·        Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate on application that they meet SETU’s English language requirements and provide all necessary documentation. See Page 7 of the Code of Practice

In order to be shortlisted for interview, you must meet the SETU English speaking requirements so please provide evidence in your application.  

Please note that paper submissions will not be accepted.