Media Release: AgSafe announces end-of-season Mental Wellness Debrief sessions for B.C.’s agricultural producers

MEDIA RELEASE


AgSafe announces end-of-season Mental Wellness Debrief sessions for B.C.’s agricultural producers


Langley, B.C./ October 18, 2023 –Beginning this fall producers across British Columbia will have an opportunity to connect with industry peers through AgSafe’s upcoming virtual Mental Wellness Debrief sessions. The debrief sessions are offered at no cost to participants and are an opportunity to discuss the challenges and stresses they faced during the season.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by producers, these virtual sessions aim to create a confidential environment where farmers, ranchers and growers can connect, share and reflect on their experiences in a group discussion guided by a clinical counsellor.

With drought, wildfires and supply chain disruptions, 2023 has been another challenging year for British Columbia’s agricultural industry. These debriefing events will provide a space for producers to connect with others facing similar challenges, and acknowledge the hard work, unpredictability and unexpected hurdles faced during the past production season. The goal is to support the mental health and well-being of producers coming out of this season and moving forward.

By facilitating collective reflection and open dialogue about the challenges producers are facing, AgSafe hopes to set the foundation for increased resilience and connection within the agricultural community. Participation is free, voluntary and confidential, ensuring that all attendees can speak freely and openly about their experiences.

We greatly appreciate the funding from the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement, supporting the Agriculture Workforce Development Initiative. The initiative is delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC.

Mental Wellness Debrief sessions are part of the AgLife initiative, cultivating mental wellness in agriculture. For more information or to register for a session please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/mental-wellness-debrief-sessions-for-bc-ag-2737219

Event Details:


Quotes:

“Our mission has always been to ensure the safety and well-being of B.C.'s agricultural community. These debrief sessions reflect our commitment to addressing not just physical safety, but emotional well-being too.”
Wendy Bennett – Executive Director, AgSafe

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AgLife Logo

About AgSafe:


AgSafe is the non-profit health and safety association for agricultural producers in British Columbia providing site-specific consultation and on-site safety education, as well as online workplace safety resources and materials.

Media Contacts:


Lennea Durant
Media Relations
AgSafe BC
778-822-0178
lenneadurant@shaw.ca