Farmers
in the South West are being urged to seek help to cope with the extra
financial pressures over Christmas.
A new report from the University of Exeter reveals suicide rates among
agricultural workers in the region are higher than the national average.
Research
carried out by academics at Exeter University shows that in 2000
- the year before the foot-and-mouth outbreak - 3.9% of farmers
in the South West committed suicide.
This
compares with a national average of 2.9%.
A number
of organisations will be offering support to the region's farmers
this Christmas.
The
Farm Crisis Network, which was set up in 1993, became a lifeline
for many farmers during the foot-and-mouth outbreak, when many found
life a struggle.
Every
year the organisation gives out millions of pounds nationally to
help those in financial difficulties.
It
also provides a listening ear for farmers experiencing problems
such as stress, debt and family difficulties.
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