The Prince of Wales swapped royal duties for farm chores this week, getting stuck into manual work to spotlight the crucial issue of mental health within the UK's agricultural sector.
A Hands-On Royal Visit in Herefordshire
Prince William travelled to a family-run farm near Bromyard in Herefordshire, where he met with young farmers John and Laura Bowler. The visit was a central part of his support for the charity We Are Farming Minds, of which he became patron in March 2025. The organisation is dedicated to breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health in farming and provides essential services like counselling, a 24/7 support line, and training.
During his time on the farm, the future King didn't just observe – he actively participated. Despite battling poor weather conditions, he helped with the daily tasks, including apple picking and feeding the Bowlers' sheep. This hands-on approach underscored his personal commitment to understanding the realities of farm life and the unique pressures it entails.
Personal Stories Behind the Charity's Mission
The visit held deep personal significance for host John Bowler. He shared his own experience with the Prince, explaining how he had reached out to We Are Farming Minds after unexpectedly taking over the family farm at the age of 19 following his father's death in 2012. This poignant story highlighted the acute challenges and sudden responsibilities that can severely impact mental wellbeing in isolated rural communities.
Prince William also sat down for a discussion with Sam Stables, one of the charity's founders, and met John's 91-year-old grandmother, Berry, who still contributes to the farm's work. These conversations reinforced the message that mental health support is vital across all generations involved in agriculture.
Royal Advocacy for a Pressured Sector
This initiative marks one of the Prince of Wales's newer charitable focuses, directly addressing the often-hidden crisis of poor mental health among farmers and farm workers. By lending his patronage and visibly supporting the cause, he aims to encourage more people within the agricultural industry to seek help without fear of judgement.
The charity's comprehensive support system, which includes social events to combat isolation, is seen as a lifeline for many. Prince William's very public endorsement and his willingness to 'muck in' with the daily grind sends a powerful signal that it's strength, not weakness, to talk about mental health struggles, no matter your profession.
