Hundreds of farmers and people who live in rural areas are getting easier access to healthcare thanks to a market health hub.
The University of Exeter has been working in partnership with Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and not-for-profit social enterprise Imagine If to deliver the Market Health Hub in Holsworthy.
Since its launch in 2023, over 700 people have used the service. To date 100 people have required blood pressure referrals and just under 30 have required a diabetic referral.
Rachel Williams is a consultant respiratory practitioner for Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and said: "It's about meeting farmers where they are - in spaces they know and trust.
"Rural and coastal communities face unique challenges in accessing services. Our aim is to improve health and wellbeing through a sustainable farming health hub."
The average UK farmer is 60 years old, and 40 per cent are over 65. Almost half work more than 81 hours a week. With such demanding schedules, healthcare often falls to the bottom of the list of priorities.
Mental health is a major concern. A 2024 survey found that 91 per cent of farmers believe poor mental health is the biggest hidden problem in farming. The Office for National Statistics reported that in 2023, 88 men working in agriculture died by suicide.
The hub gives farmers and their families the opportunity to receive health advice and support without leaving their community and runs every Wednesday at Holsworthy livestock market.
A nurse, a community navigator, and a healthcare assistant staff the hub and services include health checks, advice such as stopping smoking, and diabetes and pain management.
There are plans for drop-in clinics focusing on chronic disease management such as asthma and COPD, vaccination clinics, holistic wellbeing, and long-term pain support.
The University of Exeter are evaluating the project. Gemma Brailey is the research lead and said: "The hub is a testament to what can be achieved when research is co-produced with the people it is designed to serve.
