Gamekeepers’ film tackles rural suicide

Film confronts rural suicide crisis

The Gamekeepers Welfare Trust has premiered a documentary film addressing suicide in rural communities, with families sharing first-hand accounts of loss in an effort to break the silence around mental health in the countryside.

The film, titled In This Together, features testimonies from relatives not only of personal loss but of the consequences that ripple outwards: the loss of a home tied to employment, the rehoming of working dogs and the upheaval of leaving a rural way of life altogether.

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Isolation at the heart of the problem

According to the Office for National Statistics, one agricultural worker dies by suicide every week in the UK, a rate that places the sector among the highest-risk occupational groups in the country. The isolation inherent to rural professions and to gamekeeping in particular is a key driver.

Helen Benson, the GWT’s chief executive, said: “Working in isolation is one of the biggest challenges our gamekeepers face. It can be difficult to reach out and talk about what we’re feeling but communication is vital. We need to support each other and make sure nobody feels alone. We must check in with a mate and remember that we are in this together.”

The film also highlights the practical support available, including GWT’s own free and confidential services. Donna, a registered mental health nurse and therapist who has worked alongside the charity for several years, addresses concerns within the gamekeeper community that seeking help might put livelihoods at risk.

“I know worries about opening up about mental health and seeking help can lead to fears of loss of livelihood and way of life,” she said. “This is something that is handled with understanding and sensitivity. Many of the keepers and land workers I have worked with have later shared that having the chance to speak with a mental health nurse or therapist has made a profound difference in their lives. Even those who were most hesitant about opening up have found the experience invaluable – they’ve felt supported, experienced personal growth and have felt grateful for the opportunity to access help and support. Overall, people have found it’s been a positive experience, not the one they feared.”

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Nationwide screening tour underway

Following its premiere at Kelso Town Hall on 15 May, the film is now touring venues across the country. A screening at Rothiemurchus is scheduled for 20 May, with further dates to be announced. Email events@thegamekeeperswelfaretrust.com or call 01677 470180 to register your interest.

If you or someone you know is struggling, the Samaritans are available around the clock on 116 123, free from any phone.