Suicide 'sadly commonplace' in farming says Laois based bereavement service

The Laois-based Embrace FARM network for bereaved and injured farm family support network is running a joint seminar to help anyone in the farming community who has been affected by suicide.

Embrace FARM is hosting the free webinar with HUGG, Ireland’s national suicide bereavement charity for people regardless of when their loss has occurred.

The organisations say it will bring together HUGG's evidence-based knowledge of suicide bereavement and the voice of those with lived experience of suicide loss, coupled with the practical and emotional supports offered by the Embrace FARM network. 

The keynote speaker on the night will be Liz Gleeson, Psychotherapist, Lecturer and Grief and Loss Specialist, whose podcast ‘Shapes of Grief’ has found its way onto recommended resources in Universities and Colleges internationally as a resource for grief education. Liz has also developed the award-winning Shapes of Grief Training Programme, the only programme that features contributions from Grief Experts worldwide. 

Attendees will also hear the personal story of a farmer who is bereaved by suicide. He will share his own story of how suicide has impacted him and his family and what has helped him to move forward. 

Norma Rohan, Co-Founder of Embrace FARM spoke about the reason for the webinar.

 “There is a sad reality that is becoming commonplace in our farming communities. Death by suicide is affecting more farm families, and for us at Embrace FARM, we are working with many farm families who are dealing with the pain of this loss. This webinar will not only remind those in our community of the supports we offer but will also address the stigma surrounding suicide that is still so prevalent to those seeking help,”  said the Shanahoe woman.   

Fiona Tuomey, Founder and CEO of HUGG, lost her daughter, Milly, to suicide in 2016. 

“Sadly, suicides in the farming community are a reality. Rural isolation, stigma, and overwhelming grief, in addition to managing ongoing farming issues, can prevent those left behind from getting information and support. We want to change this and connect with this unique group of people living with suicide loss,” she said.  

HUGG and Embrace FARM are part of the Local Bereavement Networks supported by the Irish Hospice Foundation.  The event will run for about an hour.  Spaces are limited, so attendees are asked to register in advance.  Details provided to register will be confidential and only used to secure your place at the webinar.  

Only those presenting will be visible on screen. To register  for the webinar scheduled for Tuesday,  November 28 at 7.30 pm  visit: https://bit.ly/SuicideInTheFarmingCommunity 

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If you, or someone you know might benefit from the work of Embrace FARM, you can reach them directly at 085 770 9966 or info@embracefarm.com