Mental Health First Aiders



We all know how important it is to look after our mental health. Here at Somerset Young Farmers we now have a network of Mental Health First Aiders who can be called upon to help those who are struggling to access the help they need.

Who to contact

If you are worried about your own mental health, or that of someone that you know, please contact the appropriate member from the following list:

  • Louise Seymour – County Organiser 07735 591370
  • Amity Thwaites - Chew Valley 07490410820
  • Rosey Botwright - Crewkerne 07851 232603
  • Sam Winzer – Exmoor YFC 07929 067117
  • Millie Payne - Farrington Gurney 07769678277
  • Alex Twigger - Frome 07873907091
  • Keira Sparkes - Highbridge 07507020669
  • Joy Davenport – Ilminster/ Wessex Group 07976 092230
  • Sam Wade - Kingsbrompton 074963 67674
  • Adam Hubbart - Langport 07774542704
  • Sarah Howe – Wedmore YFC 07749 112537
  • Becky James - Wellington & Taunton rebeccajames2811@gmail.con
  • Arron Emrey - Weston and Banwell 07307852667
  • Iona Leckie – Williton YFC 07554 329774
  • Katie Parkinson - Wincanton 07421738202
  • Robert White - Wiveliscombe 07511 211761
  • Amber Keeley - Yeovil amberkeeley600@gmail.com

Training process

During the Covid-19 pandemic we became worried how the lockdown was affecting SYFC members so we decided to take positive action. With help from funding from The Somerset Community Foundation and the Bridgwater Agricultural Society we were able to provide the Mental Health First Aid Course for 14 of our members.

The training gave the first aiders the skills to assess the situation and signpost appropriately. Following on from this the Bridgwater Agricultural Society has funded a short course aimed at helping younger members to identify potential mental health problems and where they can access appropriate help.

Both courses were delivered by Becky Wright of New Leaf. Along with Becky the Somerset Young Farmers are part of the Somerset Mental Health in Agriculture Group. The group’s aim is to spread awareness of the mental health crisis that exists in agriculture and to give the community access and support for mental health provision.