A Government-backed scheme to curb the rising number of suicides among stressed farmers is being launched in London today.

Falling livestock prices, the BSE crisis and the recent swine fever outbreak have all increased the stress experienced by farming families.

The Rural Stress Information Network (RSIN) has been set up - in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food - to try to help farmers cope.

'Listening ear' for stressed farmers

Alun Evans, a sheep farmer from Tywyn in Gwynedd, chairs the network.

He said: "British agriculture is in the doldrums and this depression has taken its toll on many farming families.

"RSIN offers a listening ear to those in distress and points them in the direction of the help that is available.

"My role over the coming year will be to continue the good work done to date and put help within reach of country folk.

Recognising rural stress

Network director Caroline Davies, who manages a small farm in Montgomeryshire, said: "The big challenge was understanding the complexities of European funding and setting up projects to benefit farming families.

"One of the most worthwhile elements was facilitating Rural Outreach initiatives in North Wales."

Mrs Davies has already made an impact in her new role by co-ordinating the working group to draft the Rural Stress Action Plan to spend £500,000 allocated by the Government.

She added: "We now have the resources to take the plan forward, but it's vital that, together with our partners on the RSAP, we continue to build partnerships to promote recognition and understanding of rural stress.

"We look forward to working with our partner groups and MAFF to develop an effective support network across the UK."