Overview

So-called 'accidental counsellors' - people who go up the farm track to meet with farmers or regularly engage them in other ways (e.g. agronomists, veterinarians, solicitors, land agents, hauliers, bank managers), but who are not experts on mental health - have been identified as a key group of people who could spot and act on signs of farmer distress. There is limited research on the role, if any, that could and should be played by these 'accidental counsellors'. Based on surveys, mental health literacy training, and interviews primarily of agronomists, land agents, and contractors, we explore (a) the spaces of interaction between accidental counsellor and farmer, (b how an accidental counsellor supports a farmer with their mental health, (c) the effect this has on the farmer and accidental counsellor, and (d) what support an accidental counsellor needs. We critically reflect on the factors that influence the type of support given and its effect, the benefits and limits of different forms of training and help, and the role of accidental counsellors vis-a-vis a professional landscape of support.